Many assume solar panels are out of their price range because of their high initial cost. Going solar is much more cost-effective than most people realize. If a home’s roof faces south, the homeowner can install solar panels and entirely eliminate their electricity expense.
Photovoltaic cells in solar panels absorb sunlight (photons) and convert them into electricity. The solar panels used in the past were cumbersome. New thin film technology is more efficient and cheaper than conventional solar panels, both in terms of energy collection and material costs (mostly silicon).
Homeowners who invest in alternative energy sources can receive tax credits from the federal government worth up to 30% of the installation cost. Combined with incentives offered by each state, this can result in significant cost savings. In addition, if enough panels are installed to meet the home’s energy needs, any excess energy can be sold back to the power provider through net metering.
The number of panels required can be calculated by enquiring about the homeowner’s peak daily energy consumption. Per kilowatt of solar energy generated, 100 square feet of roof space is neededed. Solar panels are projected to cost as little as one dollar per watt 2011.
A solar energy system has no moving parts, so once it’s set up, it requires very little attention. In addition to the panels, you’ll need mounts, wiring, and an inverter. The inverter is required to change the electricity from DC to AC, and the mounts keep the panels off the roof by a few inches for ventilation.
There are two options for keeping a residence powered by the sun after the sun goes down. The first option is a battery, which stores energy until needed. The huge battery stores the extra power for use during the night and on overcast days. The alternative is to use net metering. Excess energy produced by the panels can be fed back into the power grid, earning credits that can later be used to offset the cost of electricity drawn from the regular power system to meet the household’s needs.
DIY kit resources are readily available online for savvy homeowners. Many homeowners may install their systems with only the most fundamental home remodeling knowledge. Professional installers can make the installation process easy for people nervous about doing it themselves. However, their services will likely come at a higher price.
Do-it-yourself Kits for solar panels allow homeowners to save money while getting a system customized to their needs. If the individual installing the kit has some basic handyman abilities, the process should go well. If there is any ambiguity, there are online resources to help. Be sure to verify your local requirements before deciding to install the system on your own since some rebate programs call for expert installation.
Installing even a few solar panels can reduce monthly energy costs, even if the home’s energy needs aren’t entirely covered.
Low-power solar panels typically found in recreational vehicles, and boats can be used to create miniature supplementary energy systems. If a homeowner cannot afford a sizable system all at once, they can steadily create a system worth noticing by investing in smaller panels as they can afford them.
Homeowners need to step up and do their part to alleviate the nation’s energy problem. Changing to renewable energy won’t happen overnight, but if everyone makes a few minor adjustments, the cumulative effect will be significant. The burden on the environment can be reduced, and so can the burden on homeowners’ wallets from rising energy expenses.
Jennifer R. Scott has been a professional writer for over ten years. She comes from a multifaceted background that covers ecology, food, animal care, and even technology. Visit Solar Panels, a provider of high-quality energy choices for your house, company, or car, to learn more about Solar Power.
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