Loadshedding and the ever increasing rate being charged for electricity not enough to convince you to consider solar? Hopefully, by the end of this article we would have convinced you that moving to solar is not only a convenient, clean way to keep the lights on, but it’s better for the environment as a whole.
The benefits of using solar energy are increasingly gaining the attention of governments, large businesses, and non-profit organizations. However, in many countries it hasn’t caught on as quickly in the residential market. The prime reason behind this is that not enough effort is being put into educating and motivating people.
This is the responsibility of the governments and large organizations. Ironically, the recent awareness and upward tick of the local solar industry is pretty much solely due to our government. Not through education and awareness, but rather through negligence and the failing infrastructure that power producer Eskom are overseeing. Solar power is becoming more and more of a necessity, good news is, the benefits of this adoption are far greater than the coal powered incumbents.
We have discussed some of the major benefits here in this article. Have a read.
Lowers your electricity bill
Solar panels generate a good quantity of electricity during peak hours. It works throughout the year except for a few densely clouded days. What this means is that solar power can considerably lower your electricity bill as the consumption from the power grid will be reduced.
Some countries even let their citizens contribute any excess electricity to the power grid and get money or credits from the provider. Thus solar systems not only saves your money on electricity bills but also has the potential to earn you money.
Decreases demand on the national grid
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that the less electricity you need to draw from the national grid results in less demand and less pressure to produce and supply electricity. Eskom implemented load shedding because it simply couldn’t keep up with the demand. With less demand, not only will Eskom be able to produce sufficient supply, but they will also be able to better plan scheduled maintenance to fix and maintain an aging infrastructure.
Can be maintained at low-cost
Once installed, you don’t have to worry about the maintenance as most parts of a solar power system are static. Only the inverter and batteries may need to be replaced once in 5 to 10 years, but significant technological advancements in both battery and inverters are significantly increasing their shelf lives. Apart from this, most of the manufacturers of solar systems provide 20 to 25 years of warranty. That means any fault will be repaired by the company at no extra cost.
The only thing you need to do is to clean the panels a couple of times in a year which you can do yourself. However, if you think you need an expert’s help, you may get a cleaning service provider at a relatively affordable rate.
Source of renewable energy
Unlike other conventional energy sources like coal, petroleum, natural gas, firewood, etc. Solar energy doesn’t get exhausted. It’s generated using the sun rays which never stop flowing except during the extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, it can be generated in almost any location where setting up a solar system is possible.
It can also be said that it’s better than other renewable energy sources like wind and hydro energy. Hydro and wind energy requires large dedicated project sites with certain geographical features while solar power plants can be installed almost anywhere.
Solar energy is environment-friendly
Both conventional and non-conventional energy sources including nuclear energy emit a lot of pollution causing harm to nature. In addition, nuclear energy has a high potential risk for life around the plant in case of an accident (dare we mention Chernobyl). On the other hand, energy generated by PV panels is extremely safe and environment-friendly.
Solar energy can be used in many ways
It’s a common misconception among people that solar systems can only be used for general energy consumption. However, solar is being used in a number of different applications. For example, it can be used to;
- Filter water in the areas with less clean water resources
- Light up the remote areas where the power grid is not available
- Generate energy using transparent solar energy windows for residential and commercial buildings
- Supply power to the spacecraft, satellites and international space stations.
- Prepare food using a solar cooker.
Wrap up
When compared to other energy sources including conventional non-renewable, nuclear, and renewable energy sources, solar power is far more beneficial for both life and nature. It not only provides economic benefits but also helps reduce pollution levels. Furthermore, we can install solar panels almost anywhere and produce energy. This is evident from the examples and initiatives from around the world, started by large companies and governments.
So looking at these benefits and the ever increasing issue of global warming. Solar energy has become the need of the hour.
Thinking about getting a solar system for your property?
How much do they cost?
Each solution and situation is different, but to give you an idea, check out our detailed blog on what you can expect to fork out for a solar solution.
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