Seems like good things come and go for different reasons. Solar power is one of those things. I believe that with the Presidents new focus on the United States becoming more energy independent, you will hear a lot more discussion. I think that we are about to see more solar panels around!

And obviously, like with everything else, there are pros and cons. Let’s review some of them.

Pros of Solar Power:

Zero Pollution is a big one. There is no fuel being burned and therefore no emissions or byproducts.

Less Expense. Everyone would love to have a lower electric bill, or even a zero bill. Sometimes you may be able to sell your unused power to the power company. Or you could store it for cloudy days. Who wouldn’t want to see their electric meter running backwards! If you are getting a mortgage for new construction or a refi, you may qualify for a lower rate, saving you money over the life of the loan.

Lower taxes. There are different ways to save on your taxes by using renewable energy sources.

Lower maintenance. Once a solar power system is installed, there is no maintenance. Most systems are guaranteed for at least 20 years.

It is renewable and sustainable. The sun will never run out!

Quiet. There are no moving parts and no noise.

Can be used in remote locations. Since you are self sufficient, and don’t need that power line run to your home, it can be used in very remote locations.

Space requirements. Solar panels are mostly installed on the roof, a space that is not used for anything else anyway.

Cons of Solar Power:

Initial cost. This is probably the biggest complaint. But if you are considering solar power, make sure that you calculate all of the tax credits. You may be surprised at what you find!

Climate. Even though solar power can be used just about anywhere, the hours of sunlight in a day will affect the size of solar panels needed and the actual amount of power that you get out of them.

The looks. Solar panels are unattractive to most people. Of course some of our “green” friends actually like the looks, because they know that they are helping the environment!

No power at night or on very cloudy days. This means that you either have to have an alternate source of power or have some stored.

Summary:

So if we weight the pros and cons I would have to say that the pros far outweigh the cons. And we have to know that right now somewhere there are people working on these solar power systems to solve some of the cons and make the pros even better!

Alternate sources of power are no longer going to be a choice. We are going to have to make some changes.

Pros and Cons of Solar Power is a post from: Energy Efficient Home Tips

Besides the costs of living, there’s also the environment to think about too. That’s why electric cars are getting more attention, as they save money and the environment at the same time…but what about our homes?

The cost of running a home is probably the biggest expense of all, with so many electrical items draining the power every hour of the day, it’s no wonder we’re suffering. That’s why solar power is becoming the modern choice for so many everyday homes…as solar power provides many benefits to the wallet and the environment…

…but is it possible to get solar powered without breaking the bank? And is it complicated?

The two options for a solar powered home.

There are two ways to get a solar powered energy supply for your home. The first option is to choose a commercial supplier, which may be easier physically but will also cost you several thousand dollars in the process. Or alternatively, you could use one of the plans found on the internet which not only shows you how to source the parts for really cheap (in some cases under $200) but also how to assemble it all.

Will it actually work?

Whether you choose the commercial or DIY route, there is no doubt that solar power will work for you, providing you set it up properly. The panels generate a direct current (DC) which is then inverted into alternating currents (AC) for home use. The excess energy generated from the panels during each day can be stored in a battery system or even sold back to the grid, if you’re still connected. In fact, it’s always a good idea to remain connected to the grid in case for some reason you don’t have enough energy stored for a particular demand of electricity one day.

Is it easy to do?

Setting up solar energy in your home is much easier than you might think. The large firms that supply solar energy would love to tell you otherwise, just as the energy companies would too. But the truth is, you can save up to 80% on your energy bills by simply following a simple guide that can be found online, which shows you what parts you will need, plus how to assemble and connect up to your home.

For the sake of saving up to 80% on your energy bills, doing good for the environment and being green & self sufficient, it’s a nobrainer isn’t it?

There are several companies that offer solar power home solutions to the do it yourselfer. We just completed a complete review of  Earth 4 Energy.

Click here to read the review now. And, yes you can get a solar power home solution for under $200!

Solar Power Home Solutions is a post from: Energy Efficient Home Tips