the solar house

the solar house

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You've heard all the arguments for and against solar energy, do you buy it? Many people would like a solution for the energy that is now produced by fossil fuels that is a simple and a total fix. Yet our energy needs today are supplied by a combination of fossil fuels, we just don't consider that because it's simply supplied to us by the electric company. It may be time to change our perspective from letting utility companies provide us with electricity at unpredictable costs to producing our own energy and taking back our independence.

By using solar panels to power cars, homes, RV's, mobile gadgets, and businesses we use a clean, renewable resource that replaces the need for electricity, gasoline and a gross of AA batteries. The solar technology industry is rapidly producing a variety of options and ways for us to use solar. They are overcoming some of obstacles in older technology and the price is coming down. It is part of the solution to replace our dependence on fossil fuels.

It's All About Location

Solar energy advantages and disadvantages vary widely depending on where you live. The amount of direct sunlight your solar panels will receive is still an important consideration. Direct sunlight, at least 5 hours per day is ideal, although some solar panels are now efficient in lower light. The panels required to power a home are large and roof space is limited. To truly have solar power provide enough energy to run your home, living in an area where you don't have high heating and cooling expenses may be just as important. The more electricity you use, the more you will need to produce and that directly influences the cost. Companies are producing more efficient solar panels and the technologies available and in development use a variety of methods to capture sunlight beyond the popular photovoltaic panels.

Really interested in jumping into solar energy, but want to limit your expense, try solar-powered water heaters. They are an affordable way to get started and they don't need as much sunlight.

Return on Investment

Begin with the true cost of your current system. Conservatively, use the last 2 years of your electric bills multiplied by 20 (solar panels warranties are 20-30 years). While we haven't included a factor for the increase in your annual electric bill it's not unreasonable to say that in 10 years your costs will at least double. The amount you now have is roughly your current cost to provide energy for your home for 20 years.

To realize your return on investment:

• Start with a professional home audit. The savings you realize in reduced energy usage now will save thousands when you need to buy fewer solar panels.
• Shop around for the most efficient solar panel, understand each manufacturer's requirements to achieve maximum efficiency and combine that with your situation.
• Take advantage of each and every federal, state and local government incentive, rebates, and tax credits. Utility companies may also offer a rebate.
• Make sure that the system you purchase qualifies for all the incentives and rebates.
• Some solar companies offer financing or renting/leasing options.
• Communities are creating innovative financing packages to support your transition to solar energy.

Now for some unexpected advantages of solar energy. Once your system is installed, there is no cost for maintenance and the panels have warranties that last 20-30 years. You will need to keep your panels clean to achieve maximum efficiency.

No one rejoices at the arrival of the electric bill, but you will. With the cost of electricity rising, each month's electric bill is higher than the month before, but you are producing your own energy and your electric bill will be worth framing. That monthly savings can be used to pay off your new solar system.

These are just a few of the solar energy advantages and disadvantages for homeowners today. Solar technology is becoming more efficient, using different approaches to capture sunlight and the cost is coming down. Maybe it's time to put solar energy on your to do list. Losing that unpredictable electric bill is a new kind of freedom.

Solar Energy Advantages - Do You Want to Learn More on How to Make the Transition?

Visit http://www.solar-energy-advantages-blog.com to learn more about costs and how to manage them, questions to ask, things you need to consider. We include suggestions on how to make the transition to solar energy as easily as possible. It doesn't have to be all or nothing.

Interested in learning about the many uses of solar energy? Click here http://www.solar-energy-advantages-blog.com/solar-energy-advantages/solar-energy-advantages

Clean Power Show Episode 4 - Solar House