While we’re always hearing about how expensive solar power is becoming, the prices truly are falling, making this an attractive option for more and more people. The costs of solar technology have been reduced to the point where it’s not unusual to see residential solar power installations cost less than $15,000, meaning you could put one on your roof and still have plenty left over for daily living expenses.
There are obvious pluses to having solar power on your roof. Not only do you reduce your energy costs (if you live in a place where energy is extremely pricey), but you also get to harness free solar energy that can be stored and later used when needed. Further adding to this appeal is the fact that residential solar power tends to be very affordable, with state and federal government support making solar power a possibility for virtually everyone.
Residential Solar Panels Reduce Energy Costs
It’s well-known that energy costs are rising every year and many people are looking for ways to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. The good news is that residential solar panels offer an affordable, eco-friendly option that allows you to generate your own energy and save a significant amount of money each month.
Thanks to advancements in technology and the falling costs of solar equipment, putting a residential solar panel system on your roof is more affordable than you’d think. Of course, you’ll need to decide what size panel system you need for your home, but there are also affordable options with several panels that could generate enough power for a small home or apartment. You may decide to go with a system that generates 10 to 20 kW, which is enough power for a 2- to 5-bedroom home.
Offers Far More Than Just Energy Savings
While we’re always hearing about the energy savings that come with putting solar panels on your roof, residential solar power also provides many other benefits. You’ll want to research the health benefits that solar power offers before committing to putting one of these on your roof. Some studies have shown that solar radiation can reduce your home’s heating bills by as much as 30%.
Further adding to these benefits is the fact that you can use the energy from the sun to do your daily chores. If you run a small business from home, you can even use the extra power to run appliances like a dishwasher or freezer. If you live in a warmer climate, you can use the energy from the sun to keep your pool area (or entire pool) heated during the summer months. It’s truly a win-win proposition.
Harnesses Free Energy From The Sun
One of the major draws of residential solar power is that it harnesses free energy from the sun, which means you won’t need to pay for energy costs once you decide to go ahead with the installation. The energy from the sun is completely unspent and there are no bills to speak of.
The amount of energy you can get from the sun is based on many factors, including the type of roof you have and where you live. However, it’s not unusual for a 2- to 5-kilowatt system to produce around 10 to 20 times the amount of energy you need each month. This means you won’t need to spend a penny on energy costs once you decide to go ahead with the installation. Your savings will be well worth it.
Stored Energy For Later Use
Another great thing about residential solar power is that it allows you to store the energy generated. This means you can use (and later enjoy) the energy during off-peak hours, when electricity demand is at its lowest. This option is perfect for those who use a lot of energy during the day and then relax/sleep at night, as you can still use the energy when the sun is not directly above you.
Some people enjoy using their home’s energy during the day and create schedules so they can do this, while others prefer to use energy at night, when the sun is not directly overhead, reducing the risk of overheating and damage to expensive appliances and electronics. The choice is completely up to you. Just bear in mind that you can only store a limited amount of energy, which you’ll need to account for, so you don’t run out before the end of the day.
Offers Many Other Benefits
It’s not just about the energy savings that come with putting a residential solar panel system on your roof. You’ll also want to research how solar power can improve the environment around you. One of the greatest benefits of residential solar power is that it reduces the amount of energy used by cutting out the need for other forms of power, which are derived from fossil fuels. This reduces air pollution and reduces the need for landfills, as less waste will be produced by incineration or burial. Another environmental plus to residential solar power is that it reduces the need for energy imports, which are caused by energy consumption during peak hours, especially during the summer months. This means less damage to the environment, as well as greater savings on your energy bills.
A Great Option For People With Hot Tubs
Nowadays, many homes come equipped with a hot tub, which is a great place to unwind after a long day. If you live in a place where the weather is warm all year round, it would be a great option to put a rooftop hot tub on your roof. Not only does it provide a relaxing place for you to enjoy the evening, but it allows you to soak in the sun’s heat while reducing your energy costs.
These are just a few of the reasons why you might want to put a residential solar panel system on your roof. Remember to do your research before making a purchase decision and find the best fit for your home. You can also contact us here at Solar Power Rocks if you have any further questions!