The Benefits of Photovoltaics

Many have seen the potential available in using photovoltaic panels since the 1960s. Unfortunately, the technology and the economics required to make solar energy a viable and reliable source has been a hindrance to solar energy's overall ability to gain a larger share of the energy market, and kept us from fully utilizing the advantages of solar. However, this is now rapidly changing as solar becomes more cost competitive..
There are a variety of reasons to power our homes (and society as a whole) using photovoltaic panels. These include benefits to our environment, our pocketbooks, and our independence.

Green
The benefits to our planet are an obvious, and a frequently touted benefit of solar power. If we could gain the majority of our energy from solar and other renewable sources, we could rid our planet of the vast majority of the many of the greenhouse gases and other pollutants clogging our atmosphere. There are of course some pretty nasty chemicals involved in the creation of photovoltaic panels, as well as in the batteries that store our energy, but the net effect of solar over gas, coal, and other current energy sources is positive.

Cost
In the near future, the cost of gaining energy from the sun will fall below traditional power sources, making it not only a better source of energy, but a cheaper source as well. Even at today's prices, the long term expense of solar is far better than other energy sources available to us.

Long Term Cost
Over the long term, solar energy is an incredibly liberating technology for individuals, freeing ourselves from a monthly bill to the energy company. Once the photovoltaic panels are fully paid for, the energy provided is essentially free, reducing our monthly expenses, and helping us to become more fully independent.

Photovoltaic panels are no longer just for individuals on the fringe – they make a lot of sense to anyone who wants to reduce their expenses, increase their independence, and do something positive for the environment.