The high initial costs of installing panels
The most commonly cited solar energy disadvantage, cost, is declining as the industry expands. The
initial cost to buy and install the equipment is not cheap. Still, if cost is an issue, leasing options may
reduce the amount of your initial outlay. If you do choose to buy, you will need to live in your home for a
number of years before the system pays for itself. It’s a long-term investment better suited to property
owners than renters.
Solar energy storage is expensive
Of the disadvantages of solar energy, the temporary decline in energy production during bad weather
has been a major issue. Days with low solar energy, however, are having less of an effect due to
advances in battery technology. Old technology for storing solar energy, like lead acid batteries are
being replaced by alternatives. Lithium ion batteries offer grea ter power at a lower cost. Nickel-based
batteries have an extremely long life. New technologies, like flow batteries, promise scale and durable
power storage.
Solar doesn’t work for every roof type
Not every room will work well with solar panels. Orientation matters. If your roof doesn't face the sun,
you won’t be able to capture enough solar energy. Roofs that angle into the sun tend to work better
than flat roofs.
Roofing materials like asphalt shingles, metal and tiles make installing solar panels easier. If your room is
made with other materials, installation may be more expensive. Part of what makes energy-efficient
roofs is their ability to support solar panels.
Solar panels are dependent on sunlight
It’s obvious that solar panels need sunlight to generate electricity. They won’t produce electricity at
night when you need it for light and they can be inefficient during storms and gloomy days. Your solar
energy system needs batteries if you plan to fully depend on solar energy to power your home.
Batteries are one of the more expensive components of your system. Unlike solar panels, they do wear
out and need careful maintenance to lengthen their lives. Comparing wind power vs. solar power, wind
will keep generating electricity at night and during storms, as long as there is enough wind. Many people
use both in residential systems.
