What are the key benefits of residential solar energy?

Is it worth changing to solar energy and a storage battery?

Every day, power becomes more and more necessary. Almost everything we do on a day-to-day basis requires some energy. This has led to solar PV and batteries in homes becoming a more prominent topic of conversation, specifically whether a solar system is worth it.

Besides reducing your overall carbon footprint and energy bills, solar has various other often overlooked benefits. So what are the benefits of going solar for homeowners?

Create lower electricity bills for your family

The first and potentially most crucial benefit of residential solar is that it can significantly reduce energy costs. In Australia, we are given an abundance of sunlight compared to many other countries, which means we should be using it.

When you install solar, you generate electricity, making you less reliant on the grid. A high-quality solar system can last between 20 and 25 plus years. This means you can have decades of relatively low electricity bills.

Furthermore, the cost of installing solar has decreased by over 50% in the past 10 years. Electricity costs increased dramatically in recent years and installing a solar system and battery can help you counteract this rise. If you are hesitant to pay the upfront cost of a solar and battery system, consider financing it. Be aware that the long-term savings will pay for the system and, after a few years, will deliver a healthy return for decades.

Reduce your carbon footprint

In comparison to other sources of energy, such as gas or fossil fuels, solar is extremely clean and environmentally friendly. Fossil fuel and other non-renewable energy sources are a significant reason for the increase in greenhouse gas emissions, pollution and toxic wastes that damage the environment. This means that using solar as an essential source of your home’s energy can reduce your overall carbon emissions.

Unlike other forms of energy, such as coal and oil, solar power has no direct pollution that is released into our atmosphere while they are being used. Even when we compare solar to nuclear energy, solar is considered a more environmentally friendly energy source. This isn’t to say that there is no pollution during the production process of panels and other components. However, no pollutant is released when they are on your roof and producing energy.

Increases the value of your home 

One benefit of solar that only a few people know about is that a solar system can improve the value of your home. Each kW of energy on your roof is estimated to increase your home’s value by roughly $2,000 – $3000. If you have an 8 kW system installed, your home could be worth an additional $20,000. Other research also shows that for dwellings being rented, those with solar can charge a little more per week and have fewer vacancies than those without.

You can sell your solar energy to the grid

Another form of financial gain from a solar system is the ability to sell your excess energy back to the grid. However, the feed-in tariff for many states has decreased over the years. Depending on your location, you can still find a reasonable payback price of around 8-10 cents per kWh. For many owners of the new, more extensive solar system, their solar production during the day will be higher than the energy they use. Any excess solar will be sent back to the grid, and you will receive a credit on your energy bill for this exported kWh, just another incentive to purchase a solar system.

One of the most versatile energy sources

Solar energy requires much less complicated conditions than other renewable energies such as wind or water. In comparison, a solar system requires certain angles and spaces on your roof. It is less complicated than the space needed for wind energy or a significant water source if you were to use hydroelectric power. Although you will have a lower output on cloudy days, solar panels are still considered one of the most versatile energy sources. As they will consistently produce energy, no matter the weather conditions, it’s just the question of how much.

Low maintenance requirements

While a solar system isn’t wholly maintenance-free, it requires relatively little maintenance compared to other renewable energy sources. Suppose you choose a trustworthy and reliable installer once your system has been installed. You should expect to check your system and require maintenance every 3 years or thereabouts. A lot depends on how dusty the environment where the system is installed and how many trees surround the home. Also, bats and bird poo might need to be removed from panels if you have many of these animals in your area.

While some decent upfront costs may be associated with installing a solar and battery system, going solar, especially in Australia, is worth it for most homeowners.

Not only do they help homeowners save money on their energy bills, but as the information above explains. They have several extra benefits that few people know. With solar becoming increasingly more affordable, consider solar for your home to indulge in the help for decades.

Should you consider purchasing solar, batteries, or other renewable energy products, we recommend engaging with a qualified local supplier or installer to provide you with extensive advice.  To find the right partner try our company finder and ask our recommended experts to assist you.  Using a Your Energy Answers Authorised Partner will give you a well-vetted, experienced, reliable, and trustworthy company to serve your needs.