Why Use Solar Energy?
Chances are, you are already using solar energy in a variety of forms. It is the primary fuel source in the creation of food, fresh water, petroleum, and wood. The question we propose is “why use solar energy to power your homes”? Is it realistic for generating useful heat and electricity?
The answers to this question are simple. There is no other source of energy on the planet more reliable than solar energy. When is the last time you woke up in the morning and there was no Sun?
Last we checked the government can’t tax it, and there is no pollution or greenhouse effect. And solar energy needs no refinement, it’s ready to go. Like a gift from heaven, perhaps nothing more perfect than pure solar energy.
It can be argued that solar energy systems are not extremely efficient. And we will not argue because this is true. But the thing to remember is this: solar energy systems are improving each and every year, and no matter what the efficiency is there is zero cost for the fuel.
The difficulties in using solar energy are with selecting the right application and the right equipment. How much does a solar energy system cost and how difficult is it to integrate? How simple or elaborate should it be? In my location, is solar energy right for me? Here we present a few straight forward answers to help your case.
If you live in locations with good amounts of sun, then your prospects for energy independence are good. In addition, you could be saving money and promoting a cleaner environment. The decision is not so difficult.
If your climate tends to be cloudy and rainy most of the time, then probably solar energy is not for you. Coastal climates and northern winters tend to be tough for this. But this does not mean you should not investigate, there may still be some opportunity.
Passive solar heating refers to making hot water and heating your home. If you are in a good solar climate, then you should consider installing these systems. They do not cost much and can be simple to integrate.
When it comes to making electricity from solar energy, the answer will depend on many things. Truth be told, the combustion engines and furnaces at the local Utility are sometimes hard to beat.
If your household or business consumes lots of electricity then solar power is hard to justify. This is where local Utilities are good, they can kick out the juice for all the high power users and the heavy duty industries. But if you are simple in life and efficient in how you use energy, then the up-front cost of solar power can pay off over time. It could be as little as 5 years depending on the electrical rate of your local utility (i.e. California)
If you are far away from the electrical grid and building a new home, then solar power is easy to justify. You can save money by avoiding expensive transmission cables routed to your property.
There is one more possibility with solar energy – emergency reserve capability. If you were ever involved in a natural disaster, then how great would it be to generate your own heat and electricity? Simply turn on your inverter system and ride it through.
The truth is, mankind is making good progress with solar energy technology. By engaging in independent and gridless energy systems, we can save a little money, help improve our environment, and set a good example for our kids. It is not such a bad idea to simplify our existence.