Alternative Energy Resources: What's Keeping You From Going Solar?

Solar energy is energy harvested from the sun.  Solar powered panels can be directed at the sun and be placed on your roof or on a pole to receive optimal sun exposure.  It is free energy.  But some people have limitations.  Here are the three most common reasons people tell me.  

The first reason is space.  If you want to run your lights and refrigerator and some other small appliances, you will probably start with a 3 KW system.  Depending upon the type of system you use, a 3 KW system can come with 16 panels.  If you have a small roof and can not fit the amount of panels you need for your personal needs then you can mount the solar panels on a pole next to your house.  That may be more advantageous, anyway.  If you mount your panels on a pole, then you can make that pole directional.  In other words, it will move with the sun to get the most exposure throughout the day. Stationary panels may only get 5 or 6 hours of direct sun.  But directional panels may get up to 8 hours.

The second reason people resist from going solar is that they have trees on their property in the way.  The panels must face the south. The degree at which they are set will depend upon where you live:  but, they must face south.  If you have trees in the path of the solar panels, you will need to cut them down to have a clear path just like a satellite dish needs a clear path.  If you don’t want to cut down the trees, you won’t be able to go solar.  But there are other options like geothermal or wind.

The third reason holding a person back from going solar is money.  You must pay the initial cost for the solar powered systems up front.  Once your system is installed, you can apply for credits on the state and federal level.  The federal level gives only tax credits, not actual cash money back to you.  We all have to pay taxes anyway.  The state level varies from state to state.  Some states deduct the amount of taxes you owe and then give the balance as cash back to you.  Check out your state incentives here.  On a 3 KW solar powered system, you will receive an immediate $82.00 saving on your electric bill.  You won’t have to wait to get paid.  It will be immediately and will be every month.

Decide which alternative energy resource is best for you in your area.  What’s holding you back?