Solar panels can be installed virtually anywhere. The energy they can generate depends on the direct sunlight they receive. Objects that block the sunlight reduce the amount of energy they produce. This renewable energy source can reduce your dependency on fossil fuels and foreign oil.
Tax Benefits
If you have installed solar panels at your home, you can receive a tax credit as one of the advantages of solar panels on your investment. This tax credit is worth up to $3,000, and you can carry it over to the next tax year. However, before taking advantage of this credit, you must have proof of your expenditures. This can be obtained from receipts, and you must file IRS Form 5695 to claim the credit.
The Federal government currently offers a 30% tax credit for installing solar panels. This credit is available for new solar equipment installed in a primary or secondary residence. The tax credit is only available for the first solar installation and cannot be applied retroactively to a previously installed system. The tax credit amount is subject to change each year, so it is vital to shop around before installing solar panels at your home.
Durability
While solar panels are designed to withstand the elements but are not impervious to damage, cracks and micro-fractures can affect their efficiency. Conventional panels transmit power through thin conductors on the front of each cell, which can be damaged or cracked. Durability is an important consideration when purchasing a solar panel, and some manufacturers put their panels through rigorous testing. As a result, some of them are designed to withstand windy conditions and massive snow loads, while others are made to resist falling hail. In addition to their durability, solar panels are environmentally friendly. They also use little energy and require very little maintenance. Solar panels are incredibly durable and should last for at least 25 years. You should look for a warranty that states the manufacturer’s estimated lifespan. The warranty should state that the panel will operate at its peak efficiency for 25 years. Many manufacturers offer separate warranties for equipment and workmanship.
Reliability
Several studies have documented the high reliability of solar panels. For example, one study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) examined 54,500 solar power systems in the U.S. over seven years. It found that a small percentage of these panels failed, or about five per thousand. This represents a low failure rate of 0.05% overall. Many factors, including climate, can impact reliability. In harsh climates, the failure rate is higher than in warm climates. However, reliability can be enhanced by better management of manufacturing quality.
Renewable Energy Source
Solar power systems use solar cells to convert sunlight directly into electricity. These cells are found in solar panels that are usually placed on the roof of a building. The photons from the sun’s rays activate semiconductors, which then use the electrons to create electrical currents. The electricity generated by solar panels can be used directly by the home or business. Solar power is a renewable energy source abundant in many parts of the world. According to NASA, the sun gives off enough energy yearly to power the entire planet. The sun is expected to exist for a further 4.5 billion years. However, some environmental advocates are opposed to expanding the solar power industry. These people have concerns about the processes and materials used in solar panel technology. Another type of renewable energy is wind power. These types of power stations harness wind, water, and sunlight. Energy is renewable because the resources are constantly replenished.