Solar PV panel systems in a field for commercial applications
Solar PV panel systems for commercial and industrial applications

Exploring the Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Energy

Solar energy adoption is rapidly accelerating across the country, including areas like Kansas and Illinois. There are more providers and incentives than ever, making the process of going solar simpler than it has been in past decades. When making the decision to go solar, it’s absolutely a good idea to educate yourself on the pros and cons of this investment. Here, we’ll help lay out some of the most essential solar energy pros and cons to consider.

Solar technician installing solar panels

Advantages of Solar Energy

Let’s start with why you’d want to add a solar energy system to your home. The advantages of solar power include the following.

  • Reduced bills: Energy bills are a huge expense for households in Missouri, Arkansas and beyond, and solar can save you an average of above $1,500
  • Low maintenance: One unexpected benefit of solar power is that the technology is so well-established that companies have constantly increased reliability, and maintenance is minimal.
  • Energy independence: With a solar system and battery storage, you won’t have to worry about the power going out. An appropriately sized system can power your home essentials for up to several days in the event of a grid outage.

Clearly, there are many solar energy advantages to look forward to.

Disadvantages of Solar Energy

To form a clear view of solar energy’s pros and cons, we must examine the drawbacks of solar energy.

  • High initial costs: You can expect to pay from $2.40 to $3.60 per watt, for a total of $8,500 to $30,500.
  • Weather dependency: Clearly, solar panels are dependent on the sun. However, as panels have gotten better at producing more energy with less-than-blazing sunlight, it’s usually not a factor for areas in the Midwest like Illinois or Missouri.
  • Aesthetics: Today’s solar panels are sleeker and more attractive than ever, but some HOAs refuse to allow installation.
  • Space requirements: Depending on your home’s layout, there might not be enough space to cover 100% of your energy bills, but a partial setup is still beneficial.

Considerations for Adopting Solar Energy

When you decide to so solar, there are a few things to give serious thought to throughout the process.

  • Selecting an installer: You want to work with an experienced, well-reviewed company that will ensure a functional system and prevent damage to your roof.
  • Cost: Calculate the upfront cost vs. long-term savings to confirm that it’s the right move.
  • Assistance: Right now there are multiple loans, tax credits, and rebates you can take advantage of to bring a solar energy system within your reach. The right company can help you make the most of these opportunities.

The right installer will help guide you through the process to ensure you’re a good candidate for solar installation.

Make the Right Choice With Solera Energy

Solera Energy is Missouri’s first solar company, and we’ve handled more successful installations than any other company in Missouri. As pioneers in our region, we take pride in bringing the benefits of solar energy to homes, commercial and industrial buildings, and even utility-scale projects. We can tell you if you’re a good candidate for solar, how much it will benefit you, and determine the ideal system for your energy needs. Our qualified installers will treat your home with respect, performing the installation with a focus on safety and timely completion.

Schedule a solar energy consultation with Solera Energy today and learn how we can help you enjoy the many advantages of solar energy.

How can solar work for you?

Let’s Discuss Your Options

Discuss your options

  • By providing your phone number to Solera Energy, you agree that we may send you text messages. Message and data rates may apply. message frequency will vary. Reply STOP to opt-out of future messaging or HELP for more information. Please refer to our Privacy Policies for more information about how we manage your data." This text should be made as small as possible to not affect how the contact form looks.