Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword any longer. As time passes, it’s becoming more and more a part of our reality. Residential solar panels are one option for improving your home’s sustainability and reducing your personal carbon footprint. According to the University of Michigan, residential energy use accounted for approximately 35% of total US energy use in 2022. The advantages of solar energy encompass more than reducing your environmental impact.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
Solar panels harness the energy from the sun and turn it into usable electricity through a process called photovoltaics. These panels are made of solar cells, which generate an electric current when exposed to sunlight. An inverter then converts the direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), the type of electricity used in homes and businesses. The generated electricity can be used immediately, stored in batteries for later use, or even fed back into the grid.
- Affordability
Gone are the days when solar panels were a luxury item. Advances in technology and increased demand have made solar panels remarkably affordable. The long-term savings often outweigh the initial investment. Moreover, solar panels don’t have any moving parts. That means they have a long lifespan, and once installed, they can keep generating energy for decades.
- Save Money
The financial benefits of solar panels are two-fold. First, you save on your monthly electricity bills. As your solar panels generate electricity, you draw less power from the grid, which leads to substantial savings over time. Second, the federal, state, and local governments may offer incentives, tax credits, and rebates to help encourage solar adoption. It’s a win-win situation – you save on your bills and get additional financial perks.
- Increase Home Value
A home with solar panels isn’t just energy-efficient. It’s potentially more attractive to potential buyers. Studies consistently show that homes with solar installations have higher property values. The prospect of lower energy bills and eco-friendly living can be a huge selling point for buyers.
However, they can also be associated with occasional risks. While solar panels themselves are inert, they do alter the way your roof works. One way they do this is by creating a potential hazard during heavy snowfalls. The smooth panels of glass provide very little friction for the snow to grip onto. As a result, homes with solar panels may occasionally experience a sudden avalanche of snow from the rooftop! For this reason, it’s always a good idea to enter homes with solar panels from the side door rather than the front!
- Maintain Power During Blackouts
Solar panels with battery storage can help you maintain your power supply, even during a blackout. With the proper setup, your solar system can act as an independent power source, keeping your home running during grid failures. Of course, this means you won’t lose food from the fridge or freezer, but for homes that have medical equipment, solar panels can be a literal lifesaver.
- Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Perhaps the most widely recognized benefit – solar panels significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Unlike traditional energy sources that rely on fossil fuels, solar energy is cheaper, cleaner, and renewable. By incorporating solar power into your home, you’re actively contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change one panel at a time.
The advantages of solar energy are not confined to environmental concerns. It’s a multifaceted solution that addresses financial, practical, and ethical considerations. The question is no longer whether solar panels are a viable option; they are. Now, you’re just left with the choice of when to join the millions who have already embraced the technology.
Curious about how solar panels work and the process of solar panel installation? It’s simpler than you might think. At Raynor Services, we’ll walk you through the entire process from planning to installation. We’ll make sure your space can handle the project and that the solar available will be appropriate for your home’s energy needs.
Whether you’re ready to get started now, or if you want to answer the question “how do solar panels work,” Raynor is the team to call. Embrace the future today to build a cleaner, more sustainable tomorrow. Give us a call at 609-714-0505 and begin your project today!
