Solar energy benefits are vast. It reduces carbon emissions helping us reach our clean energy goals. It provides energy independence in emergencies.
It also boosts the home’s energy efficiency in several ways. It lowers electricity bills and reduces reliance on the grid. Households can harness the limitless power of solar to avoid methods that pollute the atmosphere.
How Does Solar Contribute to Energy Efficiency?
From Sunlight to Savings: How Solar Energy is Revolutionizing Home Energy Efficiency
The electric grid relies on a generator that converts energy into electricity. Various types of generators can be used including turbine-driven generators which are further broken down as steam turbines, combustion gas turbines, combined heat and power plants, hydroelectric turbines, wind turbines, and ocean thermal energy conversion turbines. Other types of generators do not use turbines including solar voltaic cells.
The grid uses sources that require fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are a finite source that could eventually run out. They also pollute the atmosphere and contribute to global warming.
Solar panels source power from the sun, a non-polluting, non-finite source. They reduce reliance on the grid. They also provide the following benefits:
· Independent Energy Source: The grid is being overtaxed by the increased use of electronic devices and data centers. When the demand is overwhelming, a blackout can occur. Households that go solar reduce their reliance on the grid, so it is better prepared to provide the necessary output.
Powers Homes During Emergencies: Severe storms also pose a blackout risk, and are increasing due to climate change. Homes that use solar can access power during an emergency. Solar homes can remain functional during storms to avoid safety risks and stay connected if help is needed.
· Money Savings: Solar systems are expensive to install, but households will save money on energy bills that make up for installation costs. They can save even more through the federal solar tax credit, local and nationwide initiatives and incentives, and net metering.
How Much More Efficient Can You Become When Going Solar?
The amount of energy (and money) you can save when going solar varies from household to household depending on several factors as follows:
The Efficiency of Your System: Some solar systems are more efficient than others. The more efficient your system is, the more energy it produces, and the more money you will save. According to Market Watch, most set-ups produce 350 to 850 kWh per month while most households use about 909 kWh of energy monthly. You could save 95% or more on your energy bills.
Sun Exposure: If you live in a sunny climate, your panels will generate more energy and reduce your need for traditional power.
Electricity Rates: Individuals who live in areas with higher energy rates will see greater savings when they switch to solar. Solar rates are also impacted by the time of day you use the most energy. Rates tend to be highest in the evenings.
The Amount of Energy You Use: People who use a lot of energy will considerably reduce their energy bills when switching to solar.
Although energy savings fluctuate, Energy Sage estimates that a solar panel installation can save American households around $46,000 over 25 years, the average lifespan of most panels.
What are the Most Efficient Solar Panels?
A solar panel’s efficiency measures how much of the sun’s energy the panel can turn into usable energy. According to Daniel Ciolkosz, a professor of agriculture and biological engineering at Penn State,” If something is 20% efficient, that means that 20% of the energy in the sunlight reaching the panels gets turned into moving electrons”.
Generally, there are three types of panels to choose from as follows
Monocrystalline Panels: These panels have an efficiency rate of 17% to 23% and last 25 to 40 years with proper maintenance. Their compact design means they will work well on most rooftops. They are also more expensive than other types of panels.
Polycrystalline Panels: Polycrystalline panels have an efficiency of 12% to 17%. They can last 25 to 35 years. Although they are compact, you may need more panels to acquire the efficiency of the monocrystalline variety.
Thin-Film: Thin-film panels are the least efficient choice. They typically have an efficiency rating of 7% to 12%. They are not recommended for larger installations.
The type of panels you purchase matters, but brand is also a factor. Some brands manufacture panels that are known for their high-efficiency ratings. Shop around to learn which brands experts recommend.
Additionally, not every application requires the most efficient panels. For example, if you have a smaller installation that requires minimal energy use, you may be fine with polycrystalline or thin-film panels. Investing in panels that exceed your energy use needs can waste money.
How to Make Your Solar System More Efficient: Storage vs. Net Metering
Net metering and batteries are two ways to make your system even more efficient. Here’s how both options work.
Net Metering
Net metering is mandatory in 34 states. It involves installing a bidirectional meter that sends unused solar energy back to the grid. Homeowners are credited for the energy they send back and save money on their electric bills.
The process is also beneficial to utility companies because it encourages electricity generation close to where it is consumed reducing energy losses and strain on the electrical systems. It also smooths the electrical use curve so utility companies are better prepared to handle demand at peak hours
Solar Storage
Solar storage is an alternative to net metering. Instead of sending excess energy back to the grid, households can store it in battery systems. They can access this power in emergencies and when they have used up all their available solar power.
Multiple Ways to Go Solar
Solar panels aren’t the only way to go solar. You can also go solar with the following systems and devices to further increase energy efficiency:
Solar Vehicles: Solar vehicles are a relatively new technology that is not widely accessible, but you can become more energy efficient by charging EVs with solar power.
Solar water pumps: Solar water pumps convert solar energy into solar electricity to pump the system. They provide water wherever you need it.
Solar Lights: Solar lights will charge during the day and absorb enough energy to stay lit for most of the night.
Solar Generators: Solar generators can help power homes during an emergency. Unlike traditional generators, they are quiet and do not pollute the atmosphere.
Solar Sharing: If you can’t install solar panels, you may consider participating in a solar sharing program. Energy is typically generated at an offsite location. Community members share the power and costs.
Innovative Changes in the Solar Industry
Solar power is doing more than saving homeowners money and helping the environment. It is bringing changes that will shape the future of energy efficiency. Here are some updates to look forward to.
More Energy Efficient Construction
Energy-efficient construction sets the tone for the future of solar energy. It refers to new homes that are built with solar panels installed.
California took the lead by introducing the California Solar Mandate in 2018. The California Energy Commission approved the requirement of PV systems on all new residential projects. However, construction sites may be excluded if:
The roof is too small to accommodate solar panels
The roof is in a shady location and will not produce enough energy to power the home
The home has access to a community solar system
California is the only state requiring a solar system on new construction projects. However, it is leading the way for trends in the construction industry. There’s also no saying when other states will follow suit.
Customizable Energy Solutions
Various solar options make it easier for homeowners to find customized solutions. They can work with contractors to find the best setups and the most efficient panels. They can create the systems that work best with their home type.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics is a common solar installation issue. Many homeowners are concerned regarding the panels’ potential to interfere with their home’s curb appeal. However, today’s panels are sleeker than ever. Some are even made to look like regular roof tiles, so they blend into the scenery.
Smart Technology Integration
Smart technology is making solar easier to use and monitor. Examples include:
Smart Devices: Smart devices can track and monitor systems. They can monitor performance, track energy usage, adjust settings, notify users of the best time to use appliances, and alert them when issues occur.
Smart Inverters: Thesewhen you’re ready to go solar. We will help you find the companies that maximize your energy efficiency inverters can optimize the conversion of DC to AC electricity. They can also communicate with other smart devices to balance energy production and consumption.
Automated Appliances: Solar appliances can be automated to operate during peak usage times to reduce reliance on the grid.
Smart Grids: A smart grid facilitates two-way communication between utility companies and households. It consists of controls and automation that work with the electric grid to respond to changes in energy demand. It will lead to more efficient energy transmission, quicker restoration of power after an emergency, fewer declines and peaks in electricity rates, more integration of traditional and renewable systems, and better security.
Solar America is Moving the Solar Energy Revolution Forward
Solar is changing the way households save energy. Solar America is making it easy for consumers to connect with the providers that are best suited to their needs.
Visit our site and enter your information in our database. Our system will pull up providers in your area. Choose the one that you feel is right for your household. Our competitive method pits companies against each other so you get the lowest prices.
Contact us when you are ready to go to solar. We will help you find the companies that maximize your energy efficiency
