Should You Go Solar?

By Asia Nicole Alcorn
Managing Editor

When people consider solar energy for their homes, their overall goal may be to live off the grid completely. However, this is not possible.

While there are several reasons to choose solar energy, one of the biggest issues is solar energy only works during the day, not at night.

There are also moments when the amount of sunlight may be limited (cloudy, rainy, etc.). So, if you were to choose solar energy, you would have to consider a home battery storage solution, which start at $1,500. Imagine you’re driving through your neighborhood. You’re easily distracted by the big, bulky solar panels on top of your neighbor’s roof. Ugh, not a good look.

While companies may be coming out with more minimal designs, they’ll still be visible. And remember, some homeowners may not be able to choose solar energy because the panels are not fit for every roof.

The whole point of solar energy is to be the environmentally safe option for energy, but did you know it’s actually harmful to the environment?

According to IntechOpen Journals, solar panels (a manufactured product) contain harm chemicals like sulfuric acid, hydrogen fluoride, nitric acid and more.

On top of that, solar panel installations are expensive and take days, according to Wells Solar & Electrical Services. Depending on the brand quality (high or low), it may take up to two months to see a difference within your home.
So, is it really worth it?

By Iniya Nathan
Layout and Design Editor

The main reason most people turn toward solar power is to help the environment.

Compared to the traditionally used fossil fuels, solar energy does not produce any pollution, like the billions of metric tons of carbon dioxide that fossil fuels release.

Another plus is that just like renovations, solar panels can increase the value of a property, although how much varies by region. A study done by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory confirms homebuyers are willing to pay more for a house with solar panels.

Having solar panels lowers your energy bill since solar panels can produce most, or all of the energy you need, making monthly electricity costs are a lot lower. While solar panels can be expensive to install, the long-term savings are beneficial.

There may be tax credits or other government incentives for installing solar panels.

Most people shy away from installing solar panels because of expenses. However, the federal residential solar energy credit can reduce your taxes if you qualify, and some states have other government incentives to help you do your part for your planet.

Lastly, solar panels can be installed on your property as long as you receive enough sunlight.

Unlike wind turbines and hydroelectric dams, which can be placed and benefited from in certain areas, solar panels can be used in remote and off the grid areas.

So, the next time you’re thinking about what you can do to protect the planet, think solar.