What's Best for Your Home? Solar Power vs. Electricity

Are you considering going solar for your home, but you're not sure if it's better than just sticking with regular electricity? There are pros and cons to both options that are worth thinking about. This article will break down solar power versus electricity to help you determine what's best for your home.

Cost Differences

One of the biggest factors in deciding between solar and electric is looking at the costs. A solar installation has high upfront costs, but it can save you money over time. Electricity costs can also fluctuate over the years. Our experts indicate that getting a solar installation costs anywhere from $15,000 to $25,000 depending on the size of your system. However, once it's installed, you will benefit from free electricity. Any extra solar power you produce can even be sold back to the electric grid for additional savings. Meanwhile, electricity costs vary across different providers and states.

Environmental Impact Differences

Another consideration between solar and electricity is their environmental footprints. Solar energy generates clean, renewable power straight from the sun. Electricity often comes from fossil fuels that pollute. A home solar installation eliminates a household's reliance on fossil fuels. It also reduces overall demand on the electrical grid. Widespread adoption of residential solar could greatly benefit the environment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency states that electricity generation accounts for 25% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Choosing solar over electric reduces your carbon footprint. This helps fight climate change.

Limitation Differences

It's important to consider some of the limitations of electricity as well. For example, unlike solar power, electricity won't serve you when the power goes out. It's great that solar power can be stored and used as a backup energy source when you need it in emergency situations.

When weighing solar power versus electricity for your home, there's a lot to think about. While solar has higher upfront costs, it can pay off in the long run through lower energy bills and environmental benefits. According to This Old House, the lifespan of a solar installation is 25 to 35 years. With the right conditions, solar is usually the better choice over electric. Reach out to AEV Solar today if you're interested in learning more about solar power.