They seem to be showing up everywhere these days — those sheen black sheets covering roofs and awnings, or slanted in rows along some designated yard space — but solar panels have been around for quite some time. Jimmy Carter famously outfitted the White House roof with solar panels back in 1979. Since then, solar technology and the capacity for energy storage has increased tremendously, but what is a solar panel?
Also known as a photovoltaic (PV) panel, a solar panel is a collection of cells that absorb sunlight, then science happens, and that light is converted into electricity. Simple! I mean, the sun isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, hopefully, so this seems like an excellent cure for our impending energy crisis.
With the ever-increasing effects of climate change, the need for renewables is especially imperative, but how do you know if solar panels are right for you? Let’s take a look at some of the common pros and cons of going solar to see if you’re suited for a sun-powered life!
At a time when scientists warn that we are nearing an irreversible climate precipice, many people want to ease their conscience and help heal the planet. While having somewhat of a carbon footprint initially, solar panels become totally carbon neutral after only 3 years, and reduce your carbon footprint by 20 times when compared to coal.
The resale value of your home can increase after adding solar panels. For every $1 reduction in annual utilities, the value of your home gains $20. The majority of new homebuyers want solar panels included and are willing to pay 10% more for a house with solar perks.
Aside from the obvious reduction in energy bills provided by solar panels, you can actually profit from your excess energy through net metering. This is a billing strategy that basically credits homeowners and businesses for sending extra energy back to the grid. Don’t just reduce your bills, reverse them!
While you will eventually recoup your investment and then some, the initial cost of going solar can be expensive with average prices ranging between $17,000 and $23,000. The good news is that many states offer solar subsidies and prices are continuing to drop steadily as technology and material sourcing improves. You may want to calculate your energy use and check the costs of recent installations in your area at Solar-Estimate to see if going solar is a viable option.
Duh, right? Well, hear me out. Not every region is particularly sunny. Likewise, not every home receives a lot of daily sunlight. Roofs may be obstructed by trees and other structures, or just partially shaded through much of the day, drastically reducing your stored energy and savings. This, however, may be the least legitimate deterrent from solar as panels still work in cloudy weather and obstructions can be removed, but it could be something to consider given your location, architecture, landscaping, etc.
Now, it should be noted that the use of harmful materials in solar panels is rapidly decreasing, but some solar panels contain metals in the semiconductor and solder at levels high enough for the EPA to deem them toxic waste.
Well, the short answer is yes! Eventually — for the sake of the planet — we will all need to go off-grid and rejoice in the renewable revolution. The fact is, the pros of solar panels outshine any downsides, and to the contrary of the insurmountably increasing solar panel technology, so go the cons.
Companies like Gurr Brothers Energy are doing their part to ease the burden on Mother Nature while bringing you big savings through cost-effective, quality solar panel installation. Their 4-step process and 10-Point Quality Assurance Checklist will ensure that you feel like a valued customer while receiving optimal service. Now, kick that coal habit, get off your gas, and go green with the Gurr Brothers!
Author: Hunter S.
Give Gurr Brothers Energy a call today and let’s start powering your life with sunshine!
