| So, you've heard good things about solar and are | | | | - Solar panels can protect & extend the life of roofs or |
| excited at the thought of using the sun to power your | | | | even be integrated directly into a building for a more |
| home. What's next? If you're just starting think about | | | | aesthetic appearance. Cons |
| solar, you may be surprised to discover that there are | | | | - Greater upfront investment & longer payoff (10+ |
| two different possibilities for turning your house solar: | | | | years) |
| solar thermal (usually matte black with prominent pipes) | | | | - Average efficiency for solar panels remains under |
| and solar photovoltaic (usually blue and shiny). A solar | | | | 20% |
| thermal system collects heat energy from the sun and | | | | - Expensive raw materials translate to higher |
| generally uses it to heat either water or liquids that will | | | | equipment costs |
| then transfer their heat to water or air. In largescale | | | | - More roof space required Pros of Solar Thermal |
| solar thermal plants, the heat can be used to power | | | | Systems |
| steam turbines. In contrast, a solar photovoltaic system, | | | | - Up to 70% efficient in collecting heat energy from the |
| also called a solar power system, collects sunlight and | | | | sun; less roof space required. |
| converts it directly into electricity through a | | | | - Reduces electricity and gas bills by using the sun to |
| semi-conductor material like silicon. Both types can | | | | warm water and spaces. |
| slash electricity bills and pay for themselves well within | | | | - Lower initial investment and shorter payback period |
| their lifetimes. Let's take a look at each. | | | | (3-5 years). |
| Pros of Solar Power Systems | | | | - Dependable, less complex technology already used |
| - Solar photovoltaic technology produces clean, green | | | | extensively in Asia & Europe. Cons |
| electricity for 30+ years. Quality panels professionally | | | | - Less effective in the winter |
| installed usually have warranties of at least 25 years. | | | | - Peak performance in summer coincides with least |
| - The electricity produced by the system can offset | | | | need for heating |
| 60% or more of a household's energy needs, | | | | - Less versatile than solar photovoltaic Bottom Line: |
| depending on energy use and system size and | | | | Either solar technology is better and less expensive |
| orientation. | | | | than relying on fossil fuels and pollutant energy |
| - Peak production coincides with peak energy needs in | | | | sources. Both come with state and federal incentives |
| the summer. Solar panel systems can power | | | | to help with costs. Some houses even combine |
| demanding appliances like refrigerators and air | | | | thermal and photovoltaic for both heat and power! |
| conditioning without stressing the grid. | | | | |