Let The Sun Shine: Solar Energy Delivers

By Timothy Capper 

Residential solar panels have become very popular in recent years for environmental and economic reasons. Many states offer generous tax rebates and financing programs, and some consumers are not only earning considerable savings on their energy bill but even selling back their unused energy to the utilities. If solar power is a good fit for you -- more on that below -- you can expect a drastically lower energy bill and an increase in the value of your home. Those are the direct benefits. Indirectly, by choosing solar you are reducing your own carbon footprint and the nation's dependence on foreign oil.
Since the collapse of solar company Solyndra last year, there has been some media debate about the future of solar power and a handful of articles stating that "solar doesn't work." There doesn't appear to be any hard evidence for this. Solar energy was the fastest growing industry in the United States in 2010, and solar exports brought nearly $2 billion into the U.S. economy. It is in use all over the world and has been for decades. In a fast-growing industry, some companies make it and some don't.
There are a few factors to consider before deciding whether solar is right for you. First, where do you live? NASA sponsors a website called Surface Meteorology and Solar Energy (eosweb.larc.nasa.gov/sse/) that can tell you if your location gets enough sun to make the investment worthwhile. Once you've done that, check the south side of your roof. If it's shaded by a neighboring building or trees, then solar is probably not a good investment. Finally, consider the efficiency of your home. Is it well insulated? Do you run an air conditioner continuously for more than a few days a year? How energy-efficient are your appliances? Obviously, the less energy you use, the more you can benefit from solar power. Weatherizing your home and replacing old appliances (for example, switching out your old electric water heater for a tankless gas model) can also earn you tax credits, but it does add to the initial expense and preparation for solar.
As far as how well you can expect the panels to work in your home, they will provide energy as advertised. The technology is not new or even very complex. However, it requires maintenance. Dirty panels produce much less energy, and even a passing flock of birds can affect your input. Water damage can knock out the entire system, but a reputable installer will set up the panels to reduce the risk of leaks. The panels will eventually need to be replaced, just like every other piece of equipment heating your home. Solar panels can be used in conjunction with other sources, so if something does go wrong, you will never find yourself totally without power.
Do your homework before you invest: solar power is not the best option for everybody. There are pros and cons and risks as with any home improvement, but the technology itself is sound. The sun is shining anyway -- why not put that energy to work?

Renewable energy systems is one of the fastest growing industries into 2012, the primary being solar panel systems, but it may also include ground source heat and wind turbines. Impartial advice can be found online, one such site is the Daily Grind

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