If you’re considering investing in a solar energy system for your home, you will need to know the basics. Roof-mounted solar cells collect radiant heat and light from the sun and convert it to energy in order to cover some or all of your home’s electricity demands. You’ve heard that it can save you money and reduce you and your family’s negative impact on the environment. But before you dive in and get a solar system for your home, make sure you’ve explored the positives and potential drawbacks. Here are a few pros and cons of residential solar energy systems. Head over to Modernize for more ideas on implementing solar in your home.

Pros

It Will Slash Your Energy Bill

Installing a solar system requires an upfront investment, but the savings will start the moment your system is beginning to cover some of your home’s energy demands. This means self-sufficiency and independence from rising electricity rates. Your system will eventually pay for itself and provide you affordable, sustainable energy for many years to come.

It’s an Investment in the Future

We need to do what we can to create a better future for coming generations. Solar growth means less destructive fossil fuel use, which leads to a smaller carbon footprint and ultimately a cleaner, brighter earth for coming generations. The solar sector has also created economic growth and new jobs that help the economy thrive.

The Sun is an Abundant Source of Energy

Every day, the sun produces thousands of times more energy than the whole earth needs to meet its demands. It’s constant, reliable, abundant, and cannot be monopolized.

The Government Will Cut Down Your Cost 

Local and state incentives are a great motivator for people who want solar but are letting the cost hold them back. You could save thousands of dollars if your system qualifies for these rewards. The federal government is currently offering a 30 percent tax credit that will make the initial financial burden much easier to bear.

Cons

Nightly Dependence on Local Utilities

Grid-tied systems are more popular than off-grid these days, largely because batteries are costly. Without a storage option, you can’t save the excess energy your system produces. This means that during the night, when the cells can’t derive energy from the sun, solar users rely on local utility companies to supply their electricity needs.

Not Every Home Is a Good Candidate for Solar

While climate doesn’t have as much of an effect on candidacy as you may think, there are other factors that can stand in the way. A small roof, historic district stipulations, or heavy shade in your yard could affect whether solar would be a good idea for you. Before making such a big investment, you’ll want to make sure your home would allow the system to work at optimum efficiency and make the wisest decision for your situation.