Studies show that 8% of US households have solar energy for their home. Solar energy has become increasingly popular over the years as it reduces air pollution and saves energy. However, is solar energy worth it?

Don’t worry! With this guide, we dig deep into the pros and cons of solar energy with and without solar panels. That way, you can determine if solar energy is right for you and your home.

Read on to learn about the benefits and disadvantages of solar energy:

Pros

Solar energy is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and reduce air pollution. Of course, caring for the environment is just one benefit of solar power; here are a few more:

Solar Energy Reduces Your Energy Bill

One of the best benefits of having solar energy, whether you have solar panels or not, is that it naturally decreases your energy bill. Keep in mind; it takes several years to see a cost reduction.

However, you could save anywhere from $100 to $200 monthly. That means, after five years, you can save anywhere from $6,000 to $12,000. In twenty, you could save over $30,000.

Just think about what you could use the money on instead. You could go on a vacation, update your house appliances, or even save for retirement. Solar energy is an investment, but the return is certainly worth it.

Solar Energy Has Tax Benefits and Buyback Plans

In 2022, Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which extended the investment tax credit to 30% through 2032. This means that the clean energy credit covers 30% of the total cost of buying solar energy. This law acts not only as an incentive for you to buy solar energy but also makes it more affordable for different budgets.

Solar energy also has buyback plans. These plans enable consumers to sell their solar energy back to the grid. Meaning that you can sell your unused power to energy companies like Chariot Energy.

By selling your solar power back, you enable other households to enjoy the benefits of solar energy without the upfront costs. Plus, these buyback plans can help you make an easy profit from something you aren’t using.

Solar Energy Increases Your Home Value

Adding solar power to your home, with or without solar panels, is considered a home upgrade. It’s much like buying new kitchen appliances or updating your bathroom. These upgrades add value to your home, making it more desirable and expensive to buy.

In fact, having solar energy adds an estimated $15,000 to your overall home value. Studies even show that homes run off of solar energy sell faster than those with traditional energy sources. So if you want to upgrade your home, solar energy is a nice touch.

Cons

As with everything, there are pros, and then there are cons. Now that we have covered some solar energy benefits let’s take a look at some cons that are associated with solar energy from solar panels:

Solar Panels Are Not Easy To Install

Unless you’re an advanced DIYer, you shouldn’t try installing solar panels yourself. It’s a complex process that requires professional technicians to do the job correctly. The fact that you can’t install solar panels yourself can disappoint some.

However, some warranties won’t cover defects if a professional didn’t install the panels correctly. So if you want solar power but don’t want the installation hassle, contact clean energy companies like Chariot Energy. We can provide you with solar power, so you don’t have to worry about the physical installation and the varied costs of solar panels.

Not Every Roof is Right for Solar Panels

Not many people realize this, but not every roof has the right conditions for solar panels. Solar panels need a lot of space and access to sunlight. If your roof is on the smaller side or shaded by trees, your roof may not allow solar panels to work effectively.

Even if your roof hosts a lot of space and isn’t shaded by trees, that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. The angle, pitch, and overall direction of your roof affect the solar panel’s efficiency. That’s why it’s better to go paneless and buy solar power straight from a clean energy company.

You won’t have to worry about if you’re roof isn’t the right size or shape. All you have to do is start a plan, and solar energy comes to you.

Not All Solar Panels Are of High Quality

Another disadvantage consumers have to combat is not all solar panels are the same. With so many types of solar panels on the market, it’s normal to have different levels of efficiency, durability, and design for varying manufacturers.

Finding the right solar panel for your home can take quite a lot of research. You’ll need to consider how each factor will affect your long-term costs and energy needs.

However, who has time for that between work obligations and family needs? If you want an easy way to obtain solar power, just speak to a clean energy company today.