These days, there are plenty of structures that make use of solar panels as a step toward the overall betterment of the environment. People can also reduce electric bills when they utilize this form of energy. However, you will have to take a good look at both the advantages and disadvantages of going for solar power before you implement it. After all, this will significantly affect your daily activities.
The Pros of Solar Power
If you are seriously considering using solar energy, you should take time to go over its known advantages. Here are some of the most important ones:
1. It comes in abundance. Because the main source of your energy is the sun, you are sure to enjoy a great abundance of it. After all, the sunlight that is received by the surface of the earth amounts to about 120,000 terawatts. This figure is actually 20,000 times more energy than the actual need of the entire globe for power supply.
2. It is a renewable source of energy. Unlike the usual sources that many have become accustomed to such as fossil fuels, and nuclear power, solar energy is different because it cannot run out. Since the sun is in no immediate danger of dying and will continue burning strong for billions of years more, then people can continue to utilize its energy.
3. It is good for the environment. Environmentalists are highly suggesting the use of solar power to help save Mother Earth. Generally, it does not cause pollution. The installation and operation of the solar power systems may result in some emissions but these are almost nothing compared to what is often experienced from the usual power sources that people employ.
4. It is more budget-friendly. You must know just how costly electricity consumption can be. Thus, with the use of solar power, you do not have to be burdened by expensive bills every month since you will just be getting the energy from the sun.
5. It has many practical applications. One benefit of solar power is its being useful for different applications aside from generating electricity in a regular manner. For instance, solar energy is responsible for powering space satellites. It has also been proven valuable for distilling water as well as producing power in places that lack a grid connection. For your own purposes, you should get in touch with experts from electricity retailers that can help you find out more about solar power and how you can possibly use it for your own good.
The Cons of Solar Power
Naturally, the use of solar power also has its own setbacks. Here are several disadvantages that you should know about before you make a decision on utilizing it:
1. It is an intermittent source. You cannot make use of solar power at different times of the day. There are times when there is no sunlight and thus you cannot have any energy produced. Furthermore, there may be hindrances to the receiving of energy from the sun to your solar panels which can disrupt power generation.
2. It is costly to store energy. If you are using solar power, it is advisable to employ advanced technologies that allow you to store energy for later use. This way, you can have a more stable demand and load system. However, this is very expensive.
3. It takes up a lot of space. Unlike the common energy supplied by most electricity retailers, you will need to have a spacious area to install large solar panels that can meet your power demand. Although there are numerous ways today that modern technology has enabled for a limited space to produce your needed power, this can be very pricey as compared with setting up a regular power system. Such a solar energy system will also take up a bigger space despite advancements.
Having these pros and cons in mind, it is up to you if you would still want to opt for solar power for your own residence, building, or establishment. You should definitely weigh these things carefully to see which alternative will provide the best benefits.
