| Solar energy is known to be a very clean and safe | | | | - Fossil fuel power sources are quite a bit cheaper. But |
| power source. Let's look at the advantages and | | | | as photovoltaic technology get better, the price of |
| disadvantages of this technology. | | | | solar panels will decrease. |
| Advantages of Solar: | | | | - Cloud cover or smog can decrease the |
| - Solar energy is renewable. This means we don't | | | | effectiveness of solar cells. This is more of an issue |
| have to worry about running out of sunlight or using it | | | | with older solar components. Newer technologies can |
| all up. The sun is a consistent power source. | | | | overcome these effects. |
| - Solar energy is pollution-free. Compared to fossil | | | | - Solar energy is only useful when the sun is shining. It |
| fuels which release greenhouses gases, carcinogens | | | | still works on cloudy days, but it's not as efficient. |
| and carbon dioxide, solar power doesn't release any | | | | However, if you utilize an optional deep-cycle battery |
| chemicals into the atmosphere. | | | | array, you can store excess power for future use. |
| - Solar panels are very low maintenance. There are no | | | | - The location of solar panels can affect performance, |
| moving parts in a solar cell so you don't have to worry | | | | due to possible obstructions from the surrounding |
| about replacing parts. The only maintenance you might | | | | buildings or landscape. |
| have to worry about it cleaning them every once a | | | | - The initial cost of the equipment can be daunting. |
| while. | | | | Professional solar systems can cost thousands of |
| - Solar cells make no noise while collecting power. | | | | dollars. Recent products show the average consumer |
| There are no other energy sources that are silent. | | | | how to construct their own solar panels for drastically |
| - You're not required to connect to the power grid. | | | | cheaper. |
| You can be completely self-sufficient and live | | | | Solar power technology is improving all the time. Solar |
| off-the-grid. Imagine never paying another power bill. | | | | installations are increasing at an incredible rate, about |
| Disadvantages of Solar: | | | | 50% annually. |