Utilising solar energy or the power coming from the sun's rays has many benefits. Let's take a closer look on each of them. 

 

Solar Energy Saves Money

Australia's energy prices have doubled since 2015. The good news is that after big rises, wholesale electricity prices have fallen since mid-2017. The bad news is that prices are still much higher than they have been for most of the past 20 years (see article and report by TheConversation). Many experts agree that the trend will likely to continue in the years to come. 

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If you produce your own power, you can prevent paying the high cost of energy - especially when energy prices in your state are very unstable. 

 
Solar Energy is Environment-friendly

The issue of global warming will not go away, doesn't matter if you're with it or against it. So if you want to do your part to save this planet, drawing your power requirement from the sun will make a big difference. 

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Solar energy is sustainable and renewable unlike gas, coal and oil that most utility companies use. It does not produce sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, mercury or carbon dioxide as byproducts so it doesn't pollute the air. Since it doesn't emit greenhouse gases, it doesn't contribute to global warming.

 

Furthermore, using solar energy reduces demand for fossil fuel and reduces the nation's dependence on foreign energy sources. 

 

Government Gives Incentives to Those Who use Alternative Form of EnergyMany are discouraged to install solar PV systems because of the initial cost of the system. Some states like South Australia offer subsidy of battery storage of up to maximum $6000. It is expected the subsidy will decrease over time when the cost of battery storage continues to drop (see solarquotes.com.au).
 

These offers are relatively good considering the substantial increase of energy cost in recent years. 

Note: Due to the increasing number of households who want to switch into alternative forms of energy, the incentive levels decline.

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Solar Power Systems are Dependable and Require Little or No Maintenance 

Photovoltaic (PV) cells that are used in solar power systems are capable of providing electricity for a very long time. Originally developed for space use, PV cells require little or no maintenance. The proof is, most satellites orbiting earth use PV cells that are in harsh environment, not maintained but are still working properly. The manufacturers of solar panels can give as much as 25-years warranty.

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Solar Energy Helps Improve the Quality of Life

Saving the planet one watt at a time if done collectively will help reduce the effects of global warming. It will also reduce demand on coal, oil or gas power plants that emit harmful gases. In turn, using solar power helps clean the air and improves the quality of life of every individual on the planet.

 

Solar Energy can Reduce Demands for other Non-Biodegradable Materials.

For utility companies to distribute power to every home, they need materials necessary in building these systems of power lines like electric cable and steel. These require energy to produce and contribute to greenhouse gases emissions. If we can cut the demand for power plant and switch into alternative energy, we can also reduce the demand for these materials and help the environment. 

 

 

At the household level, for everyday families, going solar is an option. There are only three reasons to go solar: (1) reduce over reliance on power companies, reduce energy consumption and consequently reduce power bills; and/or (2) Add value to the family home; and/or (3) Save the environment and reduce carbon footprint.