Disadvantages To Solar Power At Home

Energy from the Sun has two things going for it as a usable energy resource. It is renewable - it will never stop supplying energy (and if it does then powering a television will be the least of your worries). And it is sustainable - no matter if we use it or not, it will never be depleted as an energy source. So doesn't it make sense to take advantage of solar power given the environmental problems fossil fuels cause and the constant rise in these energy resources ? It does and will do in the future but there are a few disadvantages the solar power that this article will cover.

The biggest problem for many people that may have just taken out a large mortgage on a house is cost of installing a solar powered system. Although solar systems are becoming cheaper, this installation cost can still be prohibitive to some people.

Depending on the type of system you are planning to install or how reliant you are planning to become on solar energy, your system may cost anything from $5000 to $50000. Many countries and states have tax rebates for installing solar systems however this can only be claimed after the system has been installed (and paid for). For many people, finding this up front cost is out of their reach.

The second most often cited disadvantage of solar power is that it is climate dependent. If you don't get the right climate or day to day weather conditions that make solar power feasible then it won't be an effective solution for your energy needs.

Another common problem with solar power is the contrast to when you most need energy and when solar power can deliver that energy. Most people need power either at night or early in the morning. These are the worst times for generating power from the Sun because it is not there or is very weak. Indeed, midday is the best time for solar power generation which is when the normal home needs it least.

The solution to this is to store the energy the Sun creates to be used later. This can be done by sending it to your utility company. This is known as a grid tie system. When there is a net metering arrangement between you and the utility company, this can be a good way to store energy but also save on your bills. The other way is to store the energy in batteries on the property. This is more complicated to set up and maintain.

Solar panels or a flat plate collector may not look attractive and generally have to be located in fairly prominent positions. If you are passionate about the design or look of your home you may have to make some compromises if you plan to install a solar power system.

Also the neighbors may not be too keen on the view either. You may get some complaints or have to clear it with the neighbors if you want to be polite. To this extent, innovations have been made. Building integrated photovoltaic cells are now more adaptable and less of an eyesore than traditional solar panels (but cost a bit more).

And the final disadvantage of solar power may not be a disadvantage depending on your outlook. Essentially you are creating your own power station and it becomes your responsibility to maintain it and ensure it does not break down. This will be more work than using the grid but may be rewarding both intellectually and financially depending on how you view solar power.

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