Many of us know that solar energy is good, but few really
understand why.
Therefore, I compiled a comprehensive list of solar energy
advantages and disadvantages that will enable you to make an
educated decision whether on not Solar Power is right for YOU.

Solar Energy Advantages
1. Saves you money
After the initial investment has been recovered, the
energy from the sun is practically FREE. The recovery/
payback period for this investment can be very short depending
on how much electricity your household uses. Financial
incentives are available form the government that will reduce
your cost. If your system produce more energy than you
use, your utility company can buy it from you, building up a
credit on your account! This is called net metering. It
will save you money on your electricity bill if you have one at
all. Solar energy does not require any fuel.

It’s not affected by the supply and demand of fuel and is
therefore not subjected to the ever-increasing price of
gasoline. The savings are immediate and for many years
to come. The use of solar energy indirectly reduces
health costs.

2. Environmentally friendly
Solar Energy is clean, renewable (unlike gas, oil and
coal) and sustainable, helping to protect our environment.
It does not pollute our air by releasing carbon dioxide,
nitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide or mercury into the atmosphere
like many traditional forms of electrical generations does.
Therefore Solar Energy does not contribute to global
warming, acid rain or smog. It actively contributes to
the decrease of harmful green house gas emissions. It’s
generated where it is needed. By not using any fuel,
Solar Energy does not contribute to the cost and problems of the
recovery and transportation of fuel or the storage of
radioactive waste.

3. Independent/ semi-independent
Solar Energy can be utilized to offset utility-supplied
energy consumption. It does not only reduce your electricity
bill, but will also continue to supply your home/ business with
electricity in the event of a power outage. A Solar
Energy system can operate entirely independent, not requiring a
connection to a power or gas grid at all. Systems can therefore
be installed in remote locations (like holiday log cabins),
making it more practical and cost-effective than the supply of
utility electricity to a new site. The use of Solar
Energy reduces our dependence on foreign and/or centralized
sources of energy, influenced by natural disasters or
international events and so contributes to a sustainable
future. Solar Energy supports local job and wealth
creation, fuelling local economies.

More on Advantages and Disadvantages of SOLAR ENERGY

Many Americans have decided to become more energy independent, and want to play a part in avoiding a very foreseeable energy crisis. They’ve decided to go solar. Creating a solar powered home is an endeavor that requires an initial investment, but the costs are being lowered everyday. Solar power provides long term benefits. Not just for the home owner, but the environment too.

Now that solar power is more efficient, you can reduce or even eliminate your electric bill, increase your home’s value and contribute to a cleaner environment, all at the same time. It’s a great time to join the move to renewable energy resources, and the perfect time to take advantage of the generous government and local utility financial incentives that can cut thousands of dollars off the price. And now that solar power is becoming even more main stream, it is growing in accessibility. Manufacturers of solar powered products have realized the potential for a solar age, and are creating new options for those who are considering a solar powered lifestyle. If you are ready to step into the solar age, you are probably wondering how and where to begin. Below is a list of ways to make your home a solar one.

Solar Attic Fans- Solar attic fans are a great example of a simple way to make your home more energy efficient without spending a lot of money. The need for air conditioning is reduced by venting hot air out of your attic. Installing a solar attic fan may also increase the life of your roof materials by keeping them at a lower temperature which also reduces moisture buildup in your attic. This prevents mold and rot in your home, and can also reduce allergens and pollution.

More on Making Your Home Solar Powered

Solar power energy systems are not inexpensive. That said it’s important to compare them within context of other types of home improvement projects. Home buyers and realtors view a solar photovoltaic or solar hot water heating system as a significant value-added improvement – similar to adding a deck or remodeling your kitchen. Plus unlike a deck or kitchen remodel, you also gain one-up on your power bills. Here are some foolproof ways to estimate the cost of a solar photovoltaic or solar thermal system and to figure out if a solar energy system makes sense for you.

Six Easy Steps To Estimate Cost of a Solar Power System

Solar power energy systems are not inexpensive. That said it’s important to compare them within context of other types of home improvement projects. Home buyers and realtors view a solar photovoltaic or solar hot water heating system as a significant value-added improvement – similar to adding a deck or remodeling your kitchen. Plus unlike a deck or kitchen remodel, you also gain one-up on your power bills.

More on Six Easy Steps to Estimate Cost of a Solar Power System