High electricity prices, an unstable power supply, and a rise in environmental awareness are all factors that have led millions of people to go solar. Solar panels harness sunlight, an inexhaustible energy source, to generate electricity. This can then be used to power all home appliances. By switching to solar energy, one can lessen one’s reliability on grid-based electricity. But is it an affordable and sustainable option? Find out in the article below.

How do solar panels work?
In simple terms, the sun releases photons absorbed by the cells in the panels. This causes an electric field to form across the panel layers. Once the panels convert the sun’s energy into Direct Current (DC), it flows through an inverter. The inverter converts this electricity from DC to Alternating Current (AC), then transmitted into one’s home to power all linked devices. The most common technology used to power residential homes is photovoltaics, also known as PV. They are commonly installed on home rooftops.

What is the cost of solar panels for a home?
Many factors, including location, roof structure, and energy requirements, affect the cost of the solar system. An average home requires 5K W of the solar system. If one’s system employs 250-watt photovoltaic panels, each residence would need about 20 of them, costing approximately $11,000. Installing solar panels is a one-time investment. Later, the cost of going solar decreases every year. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) reports that the cost of solar panel systems has decreased by 60% over the last ten years, from over $50,000 for a 6KWh system in 2011 to under $21,000 in 2022.

Benefits of solar panels
Reduced cost : Reduced electricity bills are one of the most significant benefits of rooftop solar panels. According to a study conducted by the research group CEEW and the power distribution business BYPL, one can save up to 95% of one’s monthly electricity costs with solar panels.

Reduction in carbon footprint : Power produced from fossil fuels is unsustainable for the environment. But solar power is a clean energy source that is carbon-free and emits no pollutants.

Better property value and lower dependency : Installing a solar energy system increases property value by 3-4%. It makes for a safe and profitable future investment. It also lowers one’s dependency on a centralized power supply.

How many years does a solar panel last?
Solar panels are designed to last for over 25 years. As with most technologies, they will inevitably degrade or provide less energy with time. Its approximate power output degradation is 0.5% per year. That means, after 25 years, one’s solar panel will still give over 85% output.

How often do solar panels need maintenance?
Typically, solar panels require very little maintenance. They can last long with basic cleaning and checkups. Ensure that there’s no buildup of snow, dust, debris, pollen, leaves, etc., that may block the sun’s rays. Usually, rainfall will wash away most of it, but it’s crucial to physically clean them during dry seasons. Similarly, if one notices an unusual spike in one’s energy usage or utility bill, one is advised to get the panels professionally checked. The panels, meters, inverter, and other parts of the system will work optimally with general maintenance two to four times a year.

Solar panels are a beneficial long-term investment for most people. One’s rooftop layout, solar exposure, and monthly electricity cost can give one an idea about one’s requirements. It’s advisable to get in touch with multiple reputable solar companies and compare quotes for installing a system to get the best price.