One of the most important benefits of solar panels is to provide electricity in areas that are “off-grid”. This is a term used in regard to a residence that is not serviced by an electric company because it is too remote and it simply doesn’t pay them to have the electric service run to these areas.
In addition, in these days when more and more people are becoming aware of and making efforts to be “greener”, a preferred choice is solar power because it is a source of clean energy. And as long as the sun does the job it has always done, well maintained and carefully installed home solar panels will do their work for up to 30 years or so.
Without question, one of the biggest and best advantages of having solar power is that after the initial costs involved with purchasing and installing the materials, the owner knows he will never see an electric bill again. Even more ironic is the idea that the solar power owner can possibly sell whatever excess energy that is generated back to that electric company and instead of having to pay, will be receiving cheques from them.
Most average residences have rooftops that can accommodate a variety of home solar panel options. When they are in place a device that is known as an inverter basically takes that energy generated by the panels known as direct current (DC), and turns it into alternating current (AC) that is used in the USA and many other countries.
There are a few options available to be considered. First is what is known as the grid-tie type of system. Basically, these are the ones that allow for excess power to be sold back to the electric companies. In the united states, these systems can run anywhere from $8000 up to $45000 just for the materials, not the installation. In Australia right now the cost (including installation) can be as low as $3000, with the benefit of government incentives. Many other countries are also bringing in incentives for the installation of alternate energy sources.
The other choice is an “off-grid” one that is popular for smaller cabins and homes. Materials can be much less expensive, in the range of $800 to $10000, but obviously these provide markedly less kilowatt power.
Finally, for those not quite ready to convert all the way, they may be interested in a back up source of power available in the form of a solar powered generator. These can prove to be a great item to have in case of any emergencies that arise. Another option is to buy individual solar powered appliances, from a solar oven to solar garden lights.
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