Going Solar: relevance and risk of solar panels

As the world leans increasingly toward sustainable energy solutions, solar power has emerged as one of the most accessible and impactful technologies for both residential and commercial sectors. The idea of generating electricity from the sun, clean and abundant, is surely appealing. But whether you're a homeowner or a business looking to cut energy costs, understanding the full picture is essential.

The value of going solar

Solar energy is one of the cleanest ways to generate power available today. Unlike fossil fuels, it produces no greenhouse gases or air pollutants during operation. A typical residential solar panel system can reduce carbon emissions by 3 to 4 tons annually. By replacing carbon-intensive sources like coal or natural gas, solar helps slow the pace of global warming.

Tangible benefits

• Potential for significant savings on electricity bills.
• Reduction of reliance on utility companies, and especially during peak hours.
• Households have the ability to feed excess electricity back into the grid in exchange for credits, further lowering monthly bills.
• Although the upfront investment can be substantial, solar systems often pay for themselves in 6 to 10 years, after which the energy generated is essentially free.
• Solar power offers a pathway to greater energy independence, both for individuals and countries.
• Solar energy insulates you from the volatility of energy prices driven by global oil and gas markets.
• When paired with battery storage systems, solar panels can provide backup power during blackouts, a growing concern about climate-related disruptions.
• When homes are equipped with solar panels, their property value increases, often commanding a premium in the real estate market. Studies show that homes with solar panels generally sell faster than non-solar homes.

Risks and challenges of solar adoption

Costs: Despite its many upsides, solar power isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Potential customers should be aware of its limitations and risks. The upfront price of a solar panel system, including panels, inverters, mounts, and labour, can run to hundreds of thousands of rands. In addition, adding a battery backup system for off-grid reliability can significantly increase costs. While costs are decreasing due to improved technology and competition, affordability remains a barrier for many.

Weather: Crucially, solar energy depends on sunlight, which is not constant. Panels produce significantly less electricity during poor weather. Not unexpectedly, output dips in winter months, especially in northern latitudes. And equally significant, without storage, solar systems cannot provide energy after the sun sets. This variability requires either reliance on the grid or investment in costly energy storage systems.

Environment: Not all roofs are suitable due to orientation, shading, or structural issues. Some homeowners or communities object to the appearance of panels, especially in historic or upscale neighbourhoods. An initial professional site assessment is essential to determine feasibility and potential for optimal design.

Maintenance: Although solar panels are low maintenance, they are not maintenance-free. Dirt and debris can reduce efficiency and may require periodic cleaning. While panels typically last 25 - 30 years, inverters and batteries may need replacement every 7 - 15 years. Also, remember, solar panels degrade at a rate of about 0.5% - 1% per year, gradually producing less electricity over time. Quality installation and warranties are important to minimise long-term risks.

Policies and regulations: Furthermore, staying informed about local and national policies is vital when planning a solar investment. Choosing a reputable, certified installer and reading contracts carefully is essential to avoid costly mistakes.

Going solar offers a compelling array of benefits: environmental, economic, and practical. The decision to go solar should be based on a comprehensive assessment of your energy needs, financial goals, property suitability, and local policy landscape. With thoughtful planning and the right partners, solar energy can be a transformative investment in your home and the future of the planet.