11 Environmental Benefits Of Solar Panels
Solar power is a big deal, but there is a lot of confusing marketing out there. Here is the honest breakdown of the environmental benefits and the real drawbacks — without the sales pitch.
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The Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar is one of the few home upgrades that actually reduces your ongoing cost of ownership while also reducing your carbon footprint. Here are the biggest environmental and financial upsides.
Reduces your carbon footprint
Fossil fuel power plants in the U.S. produce roughly 25% of all greenhouse gas emissions. As of 2020, U.S. solar capacity had grown enough to power around 18 million homes — the greenhouse gas savings are roughly equivalent to planting 2 billion trees.
Long-term savings
Most residential systems pay for themselves in roughly 8 years, and then continue producing essentially free electricity for the rest of their operational life.
Works in all climates
Solar panels function in rain, snow, and cloudy weather. In fact, cold weather can actually improve their efficiency because photovoltaic cells conduct better at lower temperatures.
Relieves pressure on the grid
U.S. solar already generates enough electricity for more than 17 million homes. Every additional rooftop system reduces demand on centralized generation and long-distance transmission.
Net metering
Depending on your utility, you can sell excess power your system generates back to the grid for bill credits — turning your roof into a small energy business.
The Drawbacks of Solar Energy
No energy source is a magic bullet, and solar isn't either. These are the real trade-offs to be aware of before you sign a contract.
Upfront cost
A typical residential system runs around $20,000. Financing helps, but there is still a real capital commitment at the start.
No electricity at night
Panels only produce during daylight. To have solar-powered electricity after dark you need battery storage or grid connection with net metering.
Battery storage adds cost
A quality home battery unit typically costs $7,000 or more. Adding storage is often worth it for reliability, but it is a real added expense.
Panels are a long-term commitment
Panels are bolted to your roof and stay with the home. On the plus side, they typically boost home value by an average of $15,000 — but you generally don't take them with you when you move.
Rare earth mining has an impact
The metals used to build panels have to be mined, which carries an environmental footprint of its own. Recycling programs are growing but still developing.
Is Solar Worth It?
Solar power isn't perfect, but for the majority of Arizona homeowners the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Between abundant sunshine and rising utility rates, a properly designed and maintained system delivers real financial and environmental returns for decades.
Already have a system and want to make sure it's pulling its weight? Book a solar inspection and find out exactly how it's performing.
Related: Book a solar inspection · What solar costs in Arizona
Have questions about your system?
Whether you already have solar or you're thinking about installing, we're happy to give you an honest read on what makes sense for your home.