Life without electricity is simply not possible. But have you ever wondered where your electricity comes from? Roughly 84% of all energy globally comes from burning nonrenewable fossil fuels – oil, natural gas, and coal. [1]
Overusing these nonrenewable resources has led to disastrous effects on the environment, particularly changing the carbon balance in the ocean, air, and earth. Global warming, climate change, ocean melting, poor air quality, and acid rain are all the results of the chronic emissions these resources yield. Beyond their environmental devastation, these resources are depleting and will cost you more and more to consume over time. The solution: solar panel!
Solar Panels are Eco-Friendly and Economical!
It is obvious that the energy source needs to be switched if humankind wants to reduce environmental impacts. The more obvious choice is to rely on renewable energy sources, for example, a solar panel system.
Solar panels rely on the sun’s energy to produce electricity that can be used to power up your appliances, home devices, offices, and even vehicles! Since the sun’s energy is freely available all around the globe and won’t run out, it can ensure people’s long-term use.
The best part, solar panels are now proving to be cheaper than nonrenewable sources in the long run. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they have the potential to save trillions of dollars by 2050.[2] If you want to be a part of this energy change, you can start by utilizing solar home panels, do your part for the environment, and gain the potential to save money on energy bills.
Understanding Solar Panels
Before you jump to solar consumption, you need to understand how solar panels work, how they are sustainable, and how they may help reduce costs:
1. How Do Solar Panels Work?
Solar panels are constructed from small units called photovoltaic cells. These cells are responsible for converting sunlight to electricity. The photovoltaic cells are made of a metal frame with a silicon semiconductor layer covered with a glass casing. Photons or small packets of energy will hit this semiconductor material. These photons carry enough energy to knock out negatively charged electrons in opposite directions within the cell, creating a flow of electric charges, also known as an electric current.
This electric current can then be stored in a solar power generator for future use. So long as the sun’s light is available, solar panels will always have the potential to generate electric current.
2. Solar Panels Deliver Renewable, Sustainable Energy
The energy gained from a solar panel system is renewable, sustainable and can power up nearly any device because it is derived from the sunlight. Besides, it is also entirely eco-friendly.
- The production and use of solar-powered energy do not release harmful greenhouse gas emissions or other emissions that may contribute to air pollution. In fact, a single solar panelcan offset carbon emissions equivalent to that of ten mature trees![3]
- It is important to note here that the initial production of solar panels may lead to the emission of greenhouse gases. However, the net GHG emissions are much lower than other energy sources. Moreover, the material and panels layers used in solar panels can also be reused and recycled.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, raw materials recovered from PV panels could yield a cumulative $450 Million by 2030, equivalent to the raw materials needed to produce approximately 60 million new panels. [4]
3. Solar Panels Are Cost Effective
Beyond their use as a sustainable and renewable energy source, solar panels are also proven to be cost-effective. Though the cost of harnessing solar energy was considered uneconomical years ago, the solar panel cost for procurement and installation has reduced considerably over the past decade. Solar panel prices dropped by a staggering 76% between 2009 and 2017 alone. [5]
Solar panels haven’t reduced costs, but modern installations are far more efficient than their predecessors. Installing these panels onto your home can save significant monthly utility bills, with little operating and maintenance costs. If you are studying long-term benefits, solar panels are the clear-cut winner!
The Cost-Saving Benefits of Solar Panels
How do solar panels help you save bills? Let’s explore a bit deeper:
1. Using Off-Grid Energy to Reduce Electricity Costs
One of the major benefits of solar panels is the ability to disconnect from the grid. Being independent from the grid means you won’t rely on energy from company suppliers and will no longer have to pay electricity bills.
Solar panel systems do not need any fuel to power them. Sunlight – the primary source needed for solar panels – is abundant and readily available. These systems are also right where you need them, close to your home devices, reducing transmission infrastructure costs.
Or you can opt for a mix. Even if you choose not to disconnect from the grid entirely, you will no longer have to bear high electricity costs. You could keep your essentials powered through the grid’s supply while you leave most of your devices connected to your solar panel system, which helps to cut down on electricity costs considerably.
For the average US household, a robust solar panel system may be enough to cover your energy usage, leading to up to $1500 in savings a year.[6] Going off-grid will further allow you to play your part in minimizing the negative impact power-generating industries have on the environment.
2. One-Time Investment
The second factor to consider is the money you put into the system. How much do solar panels cost? Solar panels, on average, can cost you anywhere between $4,500 to $36,000.[7] This is no small amount, so naturally, some homeowners may find installing a solar panel system somewhat daunting. However, keep in mind that this is a one-time investment. Also, some companies might be more expensive than others, such as Tesla solar panels.
Once the solar panel system is installed and ready for work, you will only have to cover minimal maintenance checkups for them to run smoothly. You will also no longer have to pay any electricity bills. It’s an attractive option for homeowners who want to reduce their power costs in the long run.
1) Incentives and Tax Credits: Installing solar panels is not only going to reduce your electricity bills but carry some incentives.
One of the best incentives the US government currently offers is the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). The ITC policy was established in 2006 to support the growth and uptake of solar energy usage in the United States. According to this policy, individuals who have installed solar panel systems on their residential property qualify for a 30% tax credit on tax years 2022 through 2032. Some states will also allow you to use this solar tax credit to recoup up to 30% of the costs of installing a new solar panel system. [8]
Another popular system you will enjoy is “Net Metering,” – a billing mechanism that will credit solar energy system owners for the excess solar energy they add to the grid.[9] This way, you can put unused solar energy from your solar panel to good use while reducing your net electricity bills.
Remember that you don’t get paid for the energy you supply. However, you could use electricity from the grid when you are low on solar energy and switch to solar during the daytime with clear skies and supply any excess power to the grid. You are then only charged for the net electricity your house uses.
Net Bill = Rate of Electricity Used From the Grid – The Rate of Electricity Sent To the Grid
In other words, if you only use minimal electricity from the grid and still manage to supply excess solar power in return, your net bill may very well be zero!
2) Long Lifespan and Low Maintenance
Solar panel systems have improved their material design and efficiency over the past few years. Your solar panel system does not require extensive maintenance.
Home solar panels are designed to withstand extreme weather changes. However, accumulated dust and debris may impact the production capacity of your panels. Most experts recommend that simply cleaning their surface from time to time is enough.
To clean your solar panels, use lukewarm water from a hose to remove contaminants and wipe the surface with a non-abrasive microfiber cloth. Avoid using any cleaning agents and soaps. You can hire a professional once or twice a year for best results. That is the bill to it!
Jackery’s Solar-Powered Solutions for Bill Saving
The solar panel market has seen a dramatic rise in competitive suppliers over the past few years. However, one brand has stood out from its peers.
Jackery is considered one of the leading solar panel suppliers around the globe. Its innovative green energy solutions have set a new precedent in the race for sustainable living. If you are unsure where to start, we recommend exploring some of the brand’s best sellers, the Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro and the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus. Both are excellent solar-powered solutions that are green, eco-friendly and will do wonders in helping you reduce your electricity bills!
1. Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro
The Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro is a power master carrying a massive 3024Wh capacity with a 3000W power output. The generator features a foldable design for quick setup in just one minute and is equipped with a handle and double wheels for easy portability.
The Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro is equipped with an upgraded 12-point BMS safety system that prevents errors in performance. Most importantly, the solar power generator can be fully recharged using solar energy in just 3-4 hours. You can also achieve full charging through a wall outlet in just 2.4 hours when the sun isn’t out.
You can use this Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro to power up nearly all your major appliances and home devices, including refrigerators, TVs, heaters, light bulbs, microwaves, mobile phones, coffee makers, and more, saving costs on electricity bills. The best part is that these portable devices do not need installation charges.
2. Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is a state-of-the-art solar generator capable of delivering a mega 2 kWh capacity that can be expanded further by adding additional battery packs and solar panels up to 24 kWh, which can adapt to versatile scenarios. Its expandable design makes it perfect for off-grid living, outdoors, or at home.
The generator features an internal LiFePO4 battery cell that ensures up to 10 years even with daily use. Like the Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro, the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is further connected to a smart app that can monitor your device, access real-time status, and customize your power settings as needed.
The charging capabilities of this solar power generator are also quite impressive. You can fully recharge your generator in just 2 hours using 6 Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels or a wall socket in 2 hours – whichever is easily accessible.
After expanding to 6000W, the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus can power even larger devices, including welding machines, weeders, air conditioners, pressure cookers, drones, electric ovens, and more. The basic 2 kWh setup can power up one-day camping, while with the 24 kWh setup, you can power up your home backup for up to 2 weeks! It further does not require installation fees and will easily last up to 10 years.
Jackery is considered a leading company in the solar generator industry. The brand provides a rich array of portable power supply solutions ranging from solar-powered generators to portable power stations and portable solar panels. Jackery’s products are eco-friendly, release no emissions, and are huge on cost savings in the long run.
With Jackery’s solar energy solutions, those homeowners who want to save more on their bills can enjoy the convenience of a grid-free power supply that is both sustainable and economical!
About Jackery
Jackery, which started operations in 2012, is a green energy brand based in California, USA. The company carried a vision to make green energy easily accessible to people all around the globe. With this aim in mind, the brand introduced the world’s first outdoor portable power station in 2016 and, only two years later, the world’s first portable solar panels.
Jackery’s contributions to the green energy industry are well-recognized, positioning them as one of the most reliable suppliers of solar energy products around the globe today.
Reference
- Fossil Fuels Still Supply 84 Percent Of World Energy — And Other Eye Openers From BP’s Annual Review. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/rrapier/2020/06/20/bp-review-new-highs-in-global-energy-consumption-and-carbon-emissions-in-2019/ (Accessed: 8 August 2023)
- Green energy is cheaper than fossil fuels, a new study finds. Available at: https://www.snexplores.org/article/green-energy-cheaper-than-fossil-fuels-climate (Accessed: 8 August 2023)
- A single solar panel can offset the carbon emissions of 10 trees. Available at: https://www.pv-magazine.com/2022/07/11/a-single-solar-panel-can-offset-the-carbon-emissions-of-10-trees/ (Accessed: 8 August 2023)
- End-of-Life, Solar Photovoltaic Management. Available at: https://www.irena.org/-/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication/2016/IRENA_IEAPVPS_End-of-Life_Solar_PV_Panels_2016.pdf (Accessed: 8 August 2023)
- Falling Costs Make Wind, Solar More Affordable. Available at: https://www.imf.org/en/Blogs/Articles/2019/04/26/falling-costs-make-wind-solar-more-affordable (Accessed: 8 August 2023)
- How Much Do Solar Panels Save The Average Homeowner? Available at: https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/how-much-solar-panels-save/ (Accessed: 8 August 2023)
- How Much Do Solar Panels Cost In 2023? Available at: https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/cost-of-solar-panels/ (Accessed: 8 August 2023)
- Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics. Available at: https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-federal-tax-credit-solar-photovoltaics (Accessed: 8 August 2023)
- Net Metering Overview: How it Works, The Benefits & More. Available at: https://re-volv.org/blog-center/articles/?p=solar-net-metering-explained&gclid=Cj0KCQjwrMKmBhCJARIsAHuEAPSWTeGw5y7FAkmwq97-vkBydTt3GunveaDvWFBsaNf1lo8PP-om8mkaAiJYEALw_wcB (Accessed: 8 August 2023)