Solar power has a proven track record of creating power, saving money and helping the environment. Going with solar power can be an important investment in your future. But you should do your research and be sure that solar power will work for you and your needs. The piece that follows will help you understand the financial implications of switching to solar power.
Panel efficiency and quantity of panels are huge factors in how much power you’ll be able to produce. A consultant can help you figure out just how much power you need as well as what panels are best suited to your needs. Many times it is more cost efficient to purchase energy efficient panels rather than more panels.
Besides solar panels, you need somewhere to store the energy. Buy a good quality battery which can store a large amount of power over a long period or contemplate selling the produced energy to the principal power grid in order to keep getting power from it.
You may think your solar panels are immovable, but actually, good systems are adjustable for the best sun exposure. If you must have fixed angle panels, compromise in the middle for the best possible angles for winter and summer.
Just because you have a lot of cloud cover does not mean you can’t get solar power! You can still harness the power of the sun, even in cooler climates, as long as you can get adequate sunlight. A cold and sunny place can receive more sun that a hot but shady one.
Solar Energy System
If you are prepared to invest long-term, solar energy is an excellent way to save energy and save money. The initial costs of a solar energy system for your home is expensive. Therefore, don’t invest in a solar energy system until you have settled down.
When looking for a solar panel system, try to find discounts. It can be expensive to install a good system, so take help if you can find it. Look into grants and rebates available from your state and federal government that reward those who use renewable energy. This can substantially decrease your costs. You might even be eligible to claim a tax deduction.
If you want to start using solar power in your home, look for areas that can be easily converted. You may wish to begin with small appliances to avoid a major disruptive transition with your daily routine. You will be able to gradually convert to using just solar energy.
Always check the regulations in your particular area before installing solar energy systems. Some areas require particular permits. Solar energy systems are an expensive investment, so check the laws first so you do not lose any money.
If you are considering investing in solar panels, you should start monitoring the weather. You will get the most from them if you get five hours of sunlight a day where you live. If your roof is covered with snow in the winter or if you have many cloudy days, solar energy may not be for you.
Try to keep away from people that sell solar energy systems if they’re being pushy about making a sale. These types of salespeople are pretty common in this industry. Always be ready to inform them you’ll think about their options in the near future but that you’re not going to commit right this moment. If it will save you money at the present moment, it will later as well. You will more than likely regret the decisions you made under pressure.
Solar power is an excellent option if you are located in the South West of the U.S. This is one of the most optimal areas in the country for a solar energy system. Do not hesitate to evaluate the cost of switching now.
Solar Panels
Prior to determining whether solar panels are a good fit for your needs, take a look at how much shade surrounds your home. Solar panels will not function well in heavily shaded areas. Shade reduces the amount of sunlight available to solar panels, which means that they will be highly inefficient.
Never walk on solar panels unless you absolutely must. Solar panels are extremely expensive and fragile. You would hate to accidentally break one. If you have to walk over your panels, avoid walking on the edges since these areas are more fragile.
Remember that you don’t have to put your solar panels on the roof of your home or business. If there is excess space on your land, your options are even broader. Adjustable mounts and powered sun tracker systems can mean your panels get a lot a more energy than just mounted in permanent position on your roof. That said, they take up a ton of space.
Now that you have finished this article, you should have a better idea if solar energy is a good fit for you. While this certainly sounds appealing, it’s not your best bet if you do not have access to sunlight. Use the advice given above to help you decide whether or not solar panels are worth it.
