At the dawn of 2020, everyone is looking for innovative ways to use renewable energy sources. It's estimated that fossil fuels will run out before the century is over, and it's best to be prepared for that crisis ahead of time.
Furthermore, the changes to the environment can no longer be ignored. Solar power is a hot topic these days, but the question has to be asked: will a solar-powered home pay off?
Solar Power Costs Have Decreased Immensely
Solar power isn't the abstract, futuristic idea that it once was. You can now install solar panels on your own home or take advantage of energy providers that offer solar power as an alternative to fossil fuels. If you're in an area that has deregulated energy, you can see the costs for yourself on texaselectricityplans.com.
It's estimated that the cost of solar power has decreased from $75 per watt in the 1970s to approximately $3 per watt today. This change in accessibility and efficiency makes solar power a promising renewable energy source.
Get Ahead of the Curve
As previously mentioned, fossil fuels are finite. Unfortunately, for many governments, the driving force behind changing to renewable energy sources has less to do with caring for the environment and more to do with having no other choice.
By investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar power, you're setting yourself up for success in the future. You're getting ahead of the curve, increasing your home's value, and removing yourself from a potentially challenging scenario.
The Most Abundant Form of Power
Solar power is one of the most abundant forms of renewable energy on earth. Establishing solar panels in high-sun areas, such as the Mojave desert, can generate more power in one day than the United States currently uses in a year.
Establishing solar power is making the best of a bad situation. As the ozone layer diminishes as a result of pollution, the strength of the sun on the earth increases. Capturing that energy while reducing carbon emissions just makes sense.
Heavy Upfront Cost
As with any positive thing, there are always a few negatives to consider. If you plan on establishing your own solar-powered system at home, you're looking at a hefty up-front cost.
Solar panels and the corresponding hook up costs thousands of dollars. While you'll be saving money on your power bill over time, it will take a while to see that return on investment. That's something to consider when opting to install your own solar power processes instead of using an energy provider.
Weather Dependent
Another challenge in setting up solar power at home is that the power is weather dependent. If you live in an area that gets a lot of rain or cloud coverage, trying to capture solar power on your own may not be effective. While you can store excess power generated in peak conditions, that's an extra cost consideration to keep in mind.
Available Space
Solar panels take up a surprising amount of space that isn't always in proportion with the usage requirements of your home. You have to consider the fact that the panels may not fit on your roof or that your home may not be built to withstand them.
If that's the case, you'd be looking at adding them to your yard. If you have tree coverage, this could be an added challenge.
Is It Worth It?
Switching to solar power is absolutely worth it if you can work with an energy provider who offers it now. As for installing solar power at home, there's no black and white answer; it's dependent on your unique situation. If the upfront cost isn't a concern and you live in an area that can support solar power, then it's worth considering.
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