Solar panels, also known as PV panels, are photovoltaic cell systems that convert sunlight to electricity. Traditionally, electricity has been produced by using fossils. However, that is not a renewable method and also contributes to the already-increasing pollution in various forms. This, in turn, becomes a leading cause of global warming. There has been an exponential rise in the popularity of solar panels as an alternative to traditional fossil-fuel-based power generation.
Solar panels are a part of a larger attempt to bring about a change in the energy industry. This change aims to mitigate the damage already done to the environment. It also aims to provide a clean and sustainable way for the world to function. Information on the installation of solar panels will differ from region to region. You can look for solar companies in your local area to know more about the installation procedures and cost. For instance, search for solar company Hervey Bay if you are situated in that area. This way, you can get more localized information on solar panels, and it’ll be easier for you to get them installed.
The rising popularity of solar energy is apparent because there have been massive reductions in the installation cost of solar panels over time. It is estimated by experts worldwide that the costs of electricity generated through solar panels will drop further. However, there is one question that everyone asks when it comes to solar energy and solar panels.
Does My Property Get Enough Sun For Solar Panels?
To determine whether your property gets enough sun or not, you will have to consider the following factors.
Shading
Excessive shade can lower the amount of energy that your solar panels will produce. This excessive shade can be due to nearby building structures or trees. It might be possible for you to remove certain building structures such as sheds to make space for solar panels in a particular location. However, for some, that may not be possible due to conflict of ownership, especially if it’s a space crowded with buildings or trees belonging to some other party.
In such a scenario, it’s better to find another location at your property that gets ample light. Measuring how much shade your property gets can be tricky as the position of the sun changes throughout the day. You can get a solar pathfinder to figure out how much shade your roof gets.
The Weather
Apart from shading due to material objects, you will also have to consider the weather of the local region. Certain areas do not see enough sunlight due to cloudiness, excessive snowing, or rainfall. In such places, installing solar panels might not produce efficient results. However, the decreasing cost of solar energy bills and improved implementation methods backed by newer technologies may prove to be a solution to this problem.
Apart from that, clean energy alternatives can also work in areas where there isn’t ample sunlight. These include solutions based on wind, tidal, and even biomass energy. Increasing the number of solar panels is another way to amp up the production of electricity in cloudy areas. After all, solar panels still produce energy on cloudy days. It’s just that the amount of energy produced is less.
The Energy Bill
Another factor to consider before getting solar panels is your current energy bill. Energy costs in each state are different. If you are content with your energy bill and cannot afford solar panels as of today, you can wait till it’s financially viable to get them. It is estimated, however, that the prices of solar energy will continue to drop.
In the longer run, you will end up saving more if you invest in solar energy. There are even solar loans available that can help you set up solar panels at your home. In some regions, there are even incentives that help with the installation cost of solar panels.
A Suitable Roof
The most common spot for the installation of solar panels is the roof. The type of roof you have will also determine whether a solar panel can be installed on it or not. Solar panels require roofs that are strong and durable. You will have to contact a solar panel expert to make sure that your roof is safe enough to install solar panels. If it’s not, you can replace your roof or have them installed in the yard. There are various types of solar panels available.