The benefits of solar energy are many, but the five discussed here should give you an idea of why harvesting power from the sun for residential as well as commercial use is a good idea. No part of the environment is raped to collect this energy, like its fossil fuel counterparts, and the sun is a renewable resource that touches some part of this planet continuously, and harnessing its power does not diminish the supply of available power nor the potency of that power.
Solar energy can help improve the planet and quality of life. Without the destruction of the environment to collect the power of the sun, over time reduced demand for fossil fuels will slow down or stop the harsh methods of extraction and allow for renewal of the areas being mined. Less demand on the current system means less noxious gases to be breathed by all of us as well as absorbed into the foods we eat. It is environmentally friendly.
Power from the sun is renewable. Unlike fossil fuel power sources like oil, coal and gas, solar power is sustainable. The sun does not go away, and since harnessing its power does not deplete its power, it is an unending power source. It reduces the US dependence on the current system as well as dependence on foreign energy sources.
Solar energy can save money. Reducing our dependence on foreign energy also frees us financially from having to pay higher prices. Energy prices will only continue to soar if we continue to stay dependent of fossil fuels. The costs affect many areas of our lives, from the pump and electricity to our table. If more people were producing their own power, our need for oil imports would decline, as would the demand on the electrical grid and the costs associated with it. Once a system is in place, there are no continued costs for drilling, refining, etc. associated with the continuous flow of power.
Government gives incentives to utilize alternative power sources. There are rebates and tax breaks that can be used to help minimize the cost of setting up a new system on your home. The amounts can vary depending on the location, and you should check out what is available at both the federal and state levels in your area, but any kind of assistance to reduce your costs is beneficial, and could prove to be very beneficial in the long term.
Residential solar energy systems are reliable and require little maintenance. Once a system is in place, the only real maintenance involved is to periodically clean or dust the photovoltaic cells to keep them operating optimally. A collection of dust is counter productive to collecting the suns rays, but is really minimal maintenance. Pv cells are warranted for about 25 years on average, making them a solid investment, and showing their dependability for the long haul. For proof of longevity and minimal maintenance one only need to consider that satellites have been powered by pv cells for years in a harsher environment than on your home, and have continued to work properly for years.
When you look at the big picture, the benefits of solar energy out weigh the costs associated with the initial install of a solar energy system, and can provide long lasting cost savings on electricity.
