There has been a steep rise in prices of energy all over the globe; therefore, people are finding means by which the overall bill for gas and electricity can be reduced. The introduction of solar panels into our modern lifestyle has served as a means to turn towards a more energy-efficient lifestyle and save a few bucks along the way as well.
Solar panels, or photovoltaics (PV), are panels placed on the roof of the house, preferably south or east-facing, pitched at an optimum angle between 30 and 40 degrees. These panels, usually made of silicon, absorb the energy emitted by the sun and convert it to electricity using photovoltaic cells. The installation of solar panels can transform your house into a smart house. A relatively bigger house with around 3 large bedrooms would require up to 10 panels, which may incur a cost of £6,500 or $8,155.
The benefits of installing solar panels
- The greatest advantage is that one can save a lot of money on electricity costs, and if an adequate number of panels are installed, it can produce enough electricity to suffice for the entire household.
- As this source is considered to be completely natural and a renewable form of energy, it helps in reducing the carbon footprint as the solar panel can negate the carbon emissions by tonnes every year. Thus, it is also the most sustainable form of energy available.
- Several tax benefits could also be availed and financial benefits could be incurred from using solar panels. Proper and valuable insights could be provided by the solar company.
Effect on electricity supply-
The system is designed to toggle between the two sources from time to time. In case the electricity generated from the solar panels is not enough to satisfy the requisite space, it will automatically switch to using the electricity that is supplied by the National Grid. This process is usually seamless and there would be no need to inform the electricity supply source as people do commonly use solar panel systems along with their usual energy tariff system. This would surely mean that the bill amount would ultimately be reduced to a minimum.
Disadvantages of solar panel systems-
- The prime disadvantage is that the cost of purchasing and installation of the solar panel systems is invariably quite higher, which thereby depends upon the energy used in kW and also the area of the panels in square meters. However, it ensures that the higher the amount of energy in kW is used, the more one can save on their usual electricity bill.
- Upkeep and maintenance of the solar panel also serve to be a hassle, which is required to be done yearly. So overall it is quite expensive, but one may recoup the costs within 15- 20 years of its installation, depending upon the size of the panels as it is directly proportional to the money saved on electricity bills yearly.
- Despite the possibility of recycling solar panels, the material separation process is time-consuming and needs sophisticated technology.
Factors to consider before installation
- The location of the home is of prime importance as it should be exposed to adequate and direct sunlight and should not be shielded by trees or barricades.
- Switching to sustainable forms such as LED lights can help reduce the overall consumption. Hence, smaller solar panels would also suffice considering the area they are to be used for.
- As the systems could be quite expensive, it should be considered whether one is eligible to go for solar energy financing options.
Conclusion
Installation of solar panels is considered a long-term investment, hence all the pros and cons should be weighed accordingly, keeping in mind the country one belongs to, as factors such as costs of purchasing and installation, exposure to sunlight, and tax benefits can vary from one place to another.
