Thinking of getting
solar panels installed?
Thinking of getting solar panels installed?
Homeowners are looking for more renewable and effective solutions to their energy costs, including getting solar panels installed. There is a lot of information to read, so here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages.
What are solar panels?
Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. They are made up of multiple solar cells, which are typically made from silicon or other semiconductor materials. When daylight hits the solar cells, it excites the electrons within them, creating a flow of electricity.
Advantages:
Renewable Energy Source: Solar energy is a renewable resource, meaning it comes from a virtually inexhaustible source—the sun. As long as the sun is shining, solar panels can generate electricity, making it a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solution. You don’t need a bright sunny day for your solar panels to generate electricity!
Reduced Electricity Bills: By installing solar panels, you can generate your own electricity, which can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid. This, in turn, leads to lower electricity bills over time, especially as solar technology becomes more affordable and efficient.
Financial Savings: In addition to reduced electricity bills, solar panels can provide long-term financial savings. While the upfront cost of installation can be significant, solar panels have a long lifespan (typically 25-30 years) and require minimal maintenance. Over their lifespan, they can offset or even eliminate your electricity costs, leading to substantial savings in the long run.
Energy Independence: Solar panels allow homeowners and businesses to become more energy independent. By producing your own electricity, you are less reliant on utility companies and vulnerable to power outages or fluctuating electricity prices. This can provide greater stability and control over your energy needs.
Environmental Benefits: Solar energy is a clean and green alternative to fossil fuels. Solar panels produce electricity without emitting greenhouse gases or pollutants that contribute to climate change and air pollution. By adopting solar power, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and help combat climate change.
Diverse Applications: Solar panels are versatile and can be used in various applications. They can power residential homes, commercial buildings, and even remote areas where access to the grid is limited. Solar panels can also be integrated into different forms, such as rooftop installations, ground-mounted systems, or solar farms.
Durability and Low Maintenance: Solar panels are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and hail. They have no moving parts, which reduces the risk of mechanical failures. With minimal maintenance requirements, such as occasional cleaning and inspections, solar panels offer a reliable and hassle-free energy solution.
It’s important to note that the suitability and benefits of solar panels may vary depending on factors such as location, available sunlight, system size, and local regulations. Consulting with solar energy professionals can provide a more personalised assessment of the advantages specific to your circumstances.
Disadvantages:
High Initial Cost: The upfront cost of purchasing and installing solar panels can be substantial. Although costs have decreased significantly in recent years, it still requires a significant investment. This initial cost can be a barrier for some individuals or businesses, especially if they have limited financial resources. Home Energy Scotland offer grants, interest free loans and incentives to help. Find out more here.
Intermittent Energy Source: Solar energy is dependent on sunlight, meaning that solar panels generate electricity only when exposed to sunlight. This can result in intermittent power generations, particularly during very cloudy days, at night, snow cover or overhanging foliage. Energy storage systems, such as battery storage, can help which we recommend to mitigate these issues.
Space Requirements: Solar panels require a certain amount of space to be installed effectively. Rooftop installations are a common option, but not all roofs are suitable due to factors such as shading or structural limitations. Ground mounted systems may require additional land, which may only be suitable for commercial properties.
Environmental Impact on Production: While solar energy is considered clean during its operation, the manufacturing process of solar panels involves the use of certain materials, such as silicon, which require energy-intensive processes. Additionally, the production and disposal of solar panels can have environmental impacts if not managed properly. However, efforts are being made to improve the sustainability of the manufacturing process and recycling of solar panels, and the advantage of emissions being saved once installed outweigh the initial manufacturing process.
Aesthetic Considerations: Some individuals may find the appearance of solar panels on rooftops or in landscapes unappealing. This aesthetic concern can be subjective, and efforts are being made to continually develop more visually appealing solar panel designs.
House Moving: Generally, solar panels are a long-term plan. Although you can take the solar panel system with you, it can be expensive to remove and reinstall at the new property. A fact to remember as well is that your agreement with your utility company in terms of net metering is fixed to the property.
Overview
As we become more socially aware and responsible, solar panels are increasing in popularity as people discover how solar panels are an effective source of energy. The advantages of solar systems definitely outweigh the disadvantages and with grants in Scotland available through Home Energy Scotland, it can also be cost effective.
If you would like to discuss whether solar panels are a good fit for you and your home, please get in touch to arrange a call, where our experienced and friendly team will go through everything with you.
