There are many reasons why going solar is a smart choice. Whether it be for lower energy bills, a more positive impact on the environment, or simply to give back to the planet, the benefits are endless. When customers are looking into solar, there are often a few concerns that come up. Going solar is a big decision, so we rounded up a few advantages and disadvantages of going solar to make sure you’re making the right choice for you and your family!

Advantages of Going Solar

Reduces Your Electricity Bill

One of the drawing points of going solar is a lower electricity bill. Whether it’s summer AC or winter heating, electricity costs can make up the larger portion of  monthly expenses. With a solar-powered system, energy production can be offset, saving money! Even if the solar array doesn’t produce 100% of your energy needs, it will still reduce utility bills and save money. Many states also require utilities to offer net metering, which will offset the electric costs with the energy produced by the solar panels. This excess energy can be sold to the utility, which will usually be added to electric bills as a credit to offset future electricity costs.

Protection From Rising Electricity Costs

The cost of electricity has been steadily increasing over the past ten years and only has room to grow. Installing solar panels protects against these rising electricity costs. The energy that is produced from solar panels does not have to be bought, saving money each month.

Environmentally Friendly

The environmental impact of solar energy is huge. By switching to solar, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint while fighting climate change. Traditional energy sources release several harmful toxins such as carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and greenhouse gases. Solar energy is completely renewable and emission-free, making it the perfect way to make the world a cleaner place.

There are many other environmental benefits of solar energy. Click here to read more!

Solar Energy Systems are Dependable

Solar panels have no moving parts and they are not damaged easily. Solar technology has been refined over the years and they are manufactured to be durable and require very minimal maintenance. Investing in the right type of solar panels will last you about 20 to 30 years.

The reliability and lifespan of solar panels is excellent, according to a recent study by the Energy Department. The researchers looked at 54,000 panels in total. They found that every year, only 5 out of 10,000 panels failed of those placed between 2000 and 2015. The failure rate was only 0.05%, and the manufacturing process is a lot more advanced now than ever before. You can be confident that your solar panels will function properly.

The quality of solar panels themselves will determine the lifespan and effectiveness of your energy production. High quality solar panels from well-trusted suppliers decrease your chances of solar panel failure. And, most solar panels are covered by warranty to ensure reliable, dependable custom solar systems.

The Cost of Solar is Cheaper

The cost for solar panels has been dropping over the last few years. Specifically, the cost to install solar panels has dropped by more than 70% over the last decade, leading the industry to expand into new markets and deploy thousands of systems nationwide. The price of going solar is at the lowest level in history across all market segments. These low prices make solar energy more accessible to homeowners.

Unlimited Energy

Did you know that more energy falls on the earth from the sun -- in one hour -- than the world uses in one year? As long as the sun is around, there will be power available. Solar panels allow us to harness that power and use it in place of traditional energy sources. There is no limit to the amount of energy available.

Disadvantages of Going Solar

High Upfront Costs

One of the drawbacks of installing a solar system is the high upfront cost. The average cost of solar in the United States is about $2.60 per watt. This would make a 6kW system $11,544 after claiming the 26% solar tax credit. However, the cost of a solar system will vary depending on the size, state and incentives that are available.

Luckily, there are solar financing options available so everyone can go solar!

Intermittent Energy Source

Although the energy from the sun is abundant and unlimited, it is still an intermittent energy source. This means that there are factors that can affect energy production. Solar is considered an intermittent energy source because:

• The sun doesn't shine during the night which means solar panels do not generate electricity during this time.
• The intensity of the sun can vary depending on the location, time of day, time of year, and other natural factors.
• Cloudy days, snow and foliage can have an effect on the amount of energy produced by solar panels.

Solar experts have been taking these factors into account and providing solutions to make sure solar power is efficient. Solar batteries are one of the solutions to this type of problem. Ongoing advances are a sign that intermittency may no longer be a limitation for solar power.

Solar Isn't Easy to Move

Although there are ways to move your solar system from one house to another, they are typically custom built for the home’s energy needs. It can also be expensive to move them.

However, solar panels add value to a home, so it is likely to see the value of the solar panels reflected in a higher sale price.

There are advantages and disadvantages to every major decision. The solar industry is expanding and the limitations of solar are slowly being overcome. ION Solar aims to provide premium equipment and a premium experience to every customer, so you can be sure you are making the right choice. If you’re interested in going solar, visit here for a free quote!