Solar power is an amazing type of renewable energy and a power source that is becoming more and more popular all over the planet. More and more homeowners are coming to discover the true benefits of solar energy. However, like any other energy source, its use has advantages and disadvantages. Below you will find the advantages and disadvantages of this modern energy source.
Advantages of solar energy
1. Renewable. First of all, our planet will never run out of solar energy unless the sun dies. On the other hand, we will soon run out of non-renewable energy sources, such as coal, fossil fuels, and nuclear power. According to NASA, the sun will be alive for another 5 billion years from now. Don’t worry there.
2. Abundant. The potential of this renewable resource is unimaginable. The surface of our planet receives more than 120,000 terawatts of power, which translates to 20,000 power years for actual demand.
3. Environmentally friendly. We can take as much as we want without causing any pollution. This is a very important step in the fight against the climate crisis.
4. Sustainable. Another advantage is that it can meet the needs of both this generation and the generations to come.
5. Low electricity costs. Homeowners can enjoy reduced electric bills if they choose to go off the grid. Additionally, they can take advantage of various incentives and deals to finance the purchase of a new solar system.
6. It can be used for more purposes. Finally, one of the most interesting advantages of solar energy is that it has multiple applications. Humanity is using solar energy to generate electricity in remote areas, power space satellites, heat swimming pools, and even distill water deep in Africa. Additionally, solar energy can be used to power devices, recharge them, and store electricity.
Cons of solar energy
The disadvantages of solar energy are less than its advantages. They are:
– Large Initial Investment. Even if the price of a solar panel has dropped more than 40% in recent years, they are still expensive compared to traditional renewable energy sources.
– Intermittent. Another drawback that needs to be mentioned in this solar power pros and cons article is that access to the sun is limited. For example, on cloudy days or at night, the efficiency of a solar panel drops below 1%.
– Requires a lot of space. Solar farms require a lot of space, either on the roof of the building or in the backyard.