What Are The Pros And Cons Of Solar Panels
Did you know that every single hour our planet receives 122 Petawatts of solar energy? That’s enough to power all human energy consumption on earth for a whole year times 10,000!
It’s true, the sun’s abundant power streams across the solar system powering our planet in incredible quantities. And as use of fossil fuels becomes more dangerous and less sustainable, researching the viability of using solar power in your life is a smart move. With a system that utilizes the sun’s energy, you can take satisfaction in being energy independent thanks to our favorite star.
At Integrity Energy, we are committed to helping our customers better understand their energy choices. We want to help you make the best decision for your individual needs. So, let’s shine a light on solar panels pros and cons in 2022 so you can start harnessing the power of the sun.
Solar Saves You Money
Beginning to end, the feasibility of any long-term energy goal must make economic sense. Happily, there are a ton of financial advantages when it comes to using solar power.
So, let’s get the challenging part out of the way first: solar power installation is a real financial commitment. The average national upfront cost of residential PV (Photovoltaic) solar panel installation, (including professional installation fees and the cost of a new roof) can be $15,000-$25,000. On average, we’re talking $20,498 or $2.77 per Watt.
Now for the good news. Within 6-10 years, it will have paid for itself and now you own no-cost energy. Plus, you can sell your extra energy back to the electric company and profit from your investment.
Protip:
The long-term benefit of equipping your home with solar panels is an annual 2,400 dollar savings on your energy budget.
Need more motivation? The American Government is promoting new construction of clean energy infrastructure through a generous program with a 26% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC), which has been extended through December 31, 2022 and 22% in 2023. This saves you thousands on your initial cost.
Solar is getting cheaper
As technology continues to improve with increased demand, prices for solar power installation fall. This cost advantage has been driven mostly by advancements in PV modular efficiencies, hardware, and inverters. (The inverter is an electrical box that converts direct current, or DC, incoming electricity to the alternate current, or AC, electricity that most homes use.)
More contractors are now familiar with installation along with more companies worldwide producing solar panels. In fact, since 2010, solar installation costs have fallen 64%, 69%, and 82% for residential, commercial rooftop, and utility scale energy production, respectively.
Additionally, adding enough solar panels to cover your home’s energy usage will increase the overall value of your home by 4.1%. Of course, the main disadvantage of selling a home outfitted with solar panels is walking away from the energy independence. Sadly, solar panels simply don’t travel well. But that doesn’t mean you can’t invest in a new setup at your next property and start reaping the benefits all over again.
Positive Public Perceptions
A whopping 88% of consumers want businesses to have a renewed commitment to the environment. Reducing the bottom line through energy savings and removing the unknown variable of what your business’ energy bill will total each month removes a huge burden on businesses of all sizes. The benefits of solar power for businesses is absolutely worth it.
At Integrity Energy, we specialize in helping local and national small businesses find energy savings. With over 40,000 customers served and a network of more than 30 leading energy suppliers, making your energy future secure is just what we do. The sun is going to keep shining and so are we. If you want to request a commercial energy quote, review your business’ energy plan options or get long-term energy price protection, start here.
Further considerations
Hang on, because there is a lot more to consider with solar energy than how they help your energy budgets. The solar panels pros and cons in 2022 are complex, so let’s take a closer look.
Are they really clean energy? One worldwide advantage of solar power is decreasing demand on fossil fuels. As we witness more and more environmental climate catastrophes, we value that solar energy requires zero combustion paired with zero emissions.
Nothing is 100% Perfect: One current disadvantage of solar is in the manufacturing which consumes resources. Then, after a solar array is dismantled at the end of it’s lifespan, it often ends up in the back of a landfill. Since burning the panels produces hazardous chemicals and they are still new enough that not many have gone the way of the dump yet, we haven’t fully developed the technology to dispose of them without waste. However, as solar becomes more prevalent so will advancements in the processes around it.
Solar Panel Innovation: Most homes use a 6kW PV system. This can be accomplished by outfitting your roof with either 24 conventional (or Polycrystalline) solar panels rated for 250 watts or 30 monocrystalline panels rated for 200 watts. The disadvantage of monocrystalline panels is their higher cost which is countered by their longer life span and being effective at energy production.
Consult a Professional: Because solar installation is a unique system, there are big advantages to hiring a contractor or industry professional. They will help you consider the pros and cons of various setups and help you find the best system for your roof. Not to mention clearing hurdles like permits, understanding brands and quality, what size system you’ll require, the best location for the array, and the labor needed to get the job done well.
Protip:
Ensure your installer knows the ins and outs of the industry. Be sure to inquire about their level of experience, license and certification, insurance and workman’s comp. Check on their recent job sites, warranties they or the solar company will provide, and who is responsible for the long-term (minimal) maintenance.
Not All Roofs are Equal: We understand that not all roof positions or sizes allow for a full solar array installation. Southern exposure is needed for maximum solar advantage and 24-30 panels is a substantial square footage. Or, if you’re renting, the viability of outfitting a home with solar may not be an option. However, there are alternatives to be found, such as ground-mounted systems and other creative avenues. It’s absolutely worth a conversation with a qualified installer..
Not All Days are Sunny Days: When it comes to relying on solar, we’ve got rainy days, nighttime, and winter to consider. While solar panels still operate at a lower level using UV light though cloudy weather, energy production does drop some. This limitation of solar energy can be combated in a number of ways. If you are on-grid, and gain energy credits on sunny days, you can use energy credits on days of low production. If your home is off-grid, you’ll need to invest in a solar power battery system and prioritize energy usage for times of high production.
Protip:
Don’t be stranded without lights or the internet. Pay particular consideration to energy demand patterns if your home is heated through your electrical system or if you rely heavily on heat energy for your daily needs. For example, hair dryers, toasters, and air fryers consume much more power than lights and cell phones. Similarly, if you are charging an electric car with your solar panels, this is best done when incoming solar energy is at its brightest.
Solar Energy: A Bright Future If you’re passionate about clean energy and live in an unregulated energy state with retail energy providers (REP), you can select an energy plan that receives a higher percentage of renewable energy sources. We’re happy to help you meet your eco-goals! Talk to our energy experts today about solar panels pros and cons in 2022. We can assist in finding the best commercial energy prices from renewable sources.
Check your current energy bill and look at our energy plans.
Given the extensive pros of solar panels in 2022, there are tons of ways to take advantage of the sun’s limitless energy. From solar co-ops and community investment programs to new technology, every day businesses and residents are making roads to a cleaner, more reliable energy future. Now is a great time to be a part of it!