Pros and Cons of Solar Power

Seems like good things come and go for different reasons. Solar power is one of those things. I believe that with the Presidents new focus on the United States becoming more energy independent, you will hear a lot more discussion. I think that we are about to see more solar panels around!

And obviously, like with everything else, there are pros and cons. Let’s review some of them.

Pros of Solar Power:
Zero Pollution is a big one. There is no fuel being burned and therefore no emissions or byproducts.
Less Expense. Everyone would love to have a lower electric bill, or even a zero bill. Sometimes you may be able to sell your unused power to the power company. Or you could store it for cloudy days. Who wouldn’t want to see their electric meter running backwards! If you are getting a mortgage for new construction or a refi, you may qualify for a lower rate, saving you money over the life of the loan.

Lower taxes. There are different ways to save on your taxes by using renewable energy sources.
Lower maintenance. Once a solar power system is installed, there is no maintenance. Most systems are guaranteed for at least 20 years.

It is renewable and sustainable. The sun will never run out!
Quiet. There are no moving parts and no noise.

Can be used in remote locations. Since you are self sufficient, and don’t need that power line run to your home, it can be used in very remote locations.

Space requirements. Solar panels are mostly installed on the roof, a space that is not used for anything else anyway.

Cons of Solar Power:
Initial cost. This is probably the biggest complaint. But if you are considering solar power, make sure that you calculate all of the tax credits. You may be surprised at what you find!

Climate. Even though solar power can be used just about anywhere, the hours of sunlight in a day will affect the size of solar panels needed and the actual amount of power that you get out of them.
The looks. Solar panels are unattractive to most people. Of course some of our “green” friends actually like the looks, because they know that they are helping the environment!

No power at night or on very cloudy days. This means that you either have to have an alternate source of power or have some stored.

Summary:
So if we weight the pros and cons I would have to say that the pros far outweigh the cons. And we have to know that right now somewhere there are people working on these solar power systems to solve some of the cons and make the pros even better!

Alternate sources of power are no longer going to be a choice. We are going to have to make some changes.