The technology behind solar panels has been around since 1883, and solar panels akin to the ones used today have been in existence since 1954, but the use of solar energy is just starting to take off on the world stage. Solar panels are now found in at least 37 countries, but only some of those produce a significant amount of electricity via solar panels. That said, experts predict that there will almost certainly be an uptick in reliance on energy from the sun in the future, especially as solar panels continue to become more affordable. Let us find the answers to the common solar energy questions:
What are solar panels?
Almost everyone in the developed world knows what solar panels look like at this point. That said, this doesn’t mean that most people are aware of their component parts and what goes into making them. Solar panels are made from layers of semiconductors, like silicon, and glass and work by using lenses and mirrors to concentrate sunlight.
Are they beneficial?
The short answer: yes. Nearly all experts agree that solar panels are beneficial. Not only are they beneficial for the sake of the environment, but solar panels are also beneficial for consumers who are able to invest upfront in exchange for a long-term payoff and the knowledge that they are helping to counter environmental pollution. According to Unbound Solar, “The research finds that, on average, solar panels increase home value by $14,329 – or 3.74% more than their non-PV counterparts.”
How much does it cost?
The cost of a typical solar panel installation for a family home is $10,000 to $20,000 although the cost can decrease after solar tax credits are applied. For large businesses, the cost can be anywhere between $40,000 and $75,000. Smaller businesses may be able to get away with a more modest setup for around $25,000. If you’re interested in calculating the potential solar panel cost for your home or business, check out this link.
These prices may seem high, but remember that the power that solar panels generate reduces, and, in some cases, even replaces your typical monthly electricity bill. This means that, over time, you can save–and, eventually, make money with solar panels. For instance, if your solar panels cost $15,000 to install and your annual electricity expenses come to $1,500, as they do for the average American home, then you would be able to pay off the cost of your solar panels in 10 years and save $15,000 in the next 10.
Even if these numbers become slightly less stark when you consider that solar panels are not necessarily to generate enough power to cover all power expenditures all the time, they are nonetheless impressive. With net metering, some solar panel users are even able to make money from the excess power they generate and give back to the power grid because power companies pay them for it.
How do you set one up?
Many times, solar panel purchases include setup, but, if you’re left to your own devices, essentially all that you need to do is charge the batteries and connect them to the panels.
It is, ultimately, your choice whether you choose to jump in and become an early adopter of solar panels, but, hopefully, the easy answers to solar FAQs provided in this article has been of use to you.
Salman is a prolific environmental writer, and has authored more than 500 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. He is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management, sustainability and conservation all over the world.
Salman can be reached on salman@cleantechloops.com
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