Pros and Cons of Solar Generated Power
A Look at Solar Energy Panels and DIY Kits for Residential Homes
Jun 25, 2009
Home solar power systems can be a cheaper and greener way of generating electricity for residential home use and these days is taking the lead as an alternative fuel source.
Pros of Solar Powered Energy Systems
- Solar power from the sun is a renewable source of power and a clean, natural fuel source.
- Once the solar panels are installed there is very little cost involved since there are no moving parts the solar panels and cells require very little maintenance.
- Solar power can last a lifetime and its silent compared to other alternative energy sources, like wind power.
- Utility bills can be cut by as much as 80%.
- Federal programs exist to help one get started and there are tax incentives offered by Governments (depending on country and area).
- One can start small and gradually work towards going totally 'green'.
Cons of Solar Powered Energy Panels
- Solar heating systems are not cheap if installed by a company specializing in solar heating. The average solar heating system will cost in excess of $10,000 for the panels and solar panel installation.
- Solar energy production depends on the weather, which is never completely predicable and is not feasible for all locations, where there is prolonged periods with no sunlight.
- Batteries for energy storage can add a lot of cost and maintenance to the solar panel systems but are necessary to be completely independent.
- Batteries need to be maintained and replaced after a certain number of years.
- The electricity generated by a solar system is direct current, while the electricity supplied by the utility (and the kind that every appliance a household uses) is alternating current. This means one will need an inverter (a device that converts DC to AC). Most large inverters will also allow one to automatically control how the system works.
- Solar power requires adequate space to be set up for the best results. Without enough clearance area, it may not be possible to capture the sunlight effectively for proper power generation.
Do-It-Yourself Solar Panel Kits
DIY solar panel kits are sold by reputable companies that sell at a reasonable price (starting at around $200). They may not be able to power an entire home, but will certainly save money by running a certain amount of utilities. Assembly process instructions should be easy to follow and installation set out step by step.
Other criteria for DIY solar panel kits should include information on materials that can be easily located and a money back guarantee.
Learning how to build a solar panel in one's own home from a kit is also an excellent way to gain firsthand expertise and knowledge about how the whole solar energy concept works.
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