The important disadvantages of solar panels are as follows:
High upfront cost
Nobody is going to be able to afford solar panel installation due to the initial cost, which is quite high. Despite the fact that they are now less affordable than ever, solar panels… They do, however, have a cost. Unfortunately, this is a drawback of solar panels, but the future looks bright as prices are falling. Today, solar panels are rather expensive, but due to recent government initiatives and cutting-edge technology, the cost is dropping.
The size of system is dependent on your available space
Installation of solar panels largely relies on the available area. If your roof isn’t big enough, you might need to tone down your system or consider getting solar all together. Solar panels still require a lot of room to be installed because they are quite large products. They cannot be placed in small spaces due to their size, hence a huge roof is actually needed. For those who want to equip their home with a robust system that will last for many years, this is essential. Some systems however do provide flexible designs for smaller roofs.
Requires sunny weather to work best
Only when sunlight is directly hitting the panel’s face and converting can energy be produced. ) is Solar panels work best on sunny days, but they can still generate power on overcast days because UV light is what creates the energy. It’s probably best to look at other possibilities if you live in a place with little light to find a system which can deal with shade issues.
Your solar panel performance will be significantly affected if there is not enough sunlight hitting the panels on rainy days. But remember that Australia, especially Melbourne, advantages from our plentiful sunlight, making it worthwhile for us.
Manufacturing of solar panels can harm the environment
Although solar panels produce clean, renewable energy, the manufacturing process for them might have a negative impact on the environment. Consuming fossil fuels and creating waste plastic may occur from the mass production of solar panels.
Sadly, this is one of the solar panels’ unrecognized disadvantages. Their mass production is not ecologically acceptable. Yet, you can query what is nowadays. This is unfortunate because solar panels constitute an important means of combating the climate catastrophe. Despite the fact that solar panels themselves generate green, renewable energy, this does become a disadvantage for them. Overall, I’d argue that they still do more good than they do bad.
Low energy conversion rate
Around 20–25% of the solar energy is only converted into useful electricity by even the most efficient solar panels. It just goes to show how much room there is for improvement in technology to utilize the full power of the sun.
The location and direction of the panels are just two of the many variables that need to be taken into account. The world record has been claimed by Junco solar panels a several occasions. Canadian solar panels also exist. My guidebook on the most effective solar panels for 2021 is available here. Nevertheless, I want to emphasize that solar panel efficiency shouldn’t be the primary concern. Particularly when the difference is between 1-2%. Actually, the installation or warranties would be more of a concern for me
Cannot be used at night
Your solar panels can produce energy at night, thus they can only do so during in the twelve hours of daylight each day. There won’t be any energy generated if the solar panels aren’t exposed to sunlight.
This is a disadvantage of solar panels, although it might be fixed in the future with advancements in technology. There have already been discussions about creating a “anti-solar panel” that can produce electricity at night.
Solar panels are fixed at their installed location
When panels are installed on your roof, they are basically there permanently. Solar panels are stuck in one place unless you want to incur additional costs to have your system taken down, de-wired, and moved. As solar cells are completely helpless, if you purchase one but then decide to sell, you will have to leave your system behind.
Disposal of old solar panels can be harmful to the environment
Sadly, in order to dispose of outdated solar panels, they must be melted down, which might release some harmful toxins. Not only that, but it might also be bad for the neighbourhood where it occurs. Solar panels are typically found at landfills, which is better to burning. One advantage is that solar panels often last 15 to 25 years, avoiding issues from being caused by an excess of old panels.
Your energy could be getting wasted on export limits
The fact that some areas in Australia will be subject to a solar export cap is one frustrating aspect of the country. Usually, this is roughly 5kW, but in congested places, you can even face a 0kW export limit, meaning any extra energy you have is completely lost.
This is because if everyone with solar starts export on a very sunny day, there will be too much energy and the lines could break. You may read my concise overview of export restrictions here. The number of people who already have solar power in your area will determine everything. However you may easily get around this by buying a solar battery to store your energy or by buying a green vehicle and solar panels.
Why Solar Panels are so popular
Solar panels are popular for several reasons, including:
Renewable energy source
Solar panels harness the power of the sun, which is a renewable energy source. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and will eventually run out, the sun’s energy is abundant and will continue to shine for billions of years.
Environmentally friendly
Solar panels do not emit greenhouse gases or other harmful pollutants, making them an environmentally friendly energy source. By doing so, you may lessen air pollution and fight climate change.
Cost-effective
The cost of solar panels has decreased significantly in recent years, making them more affordable for homeowners and businesses. In many cases, the cost of installing solar panels can be offset by the savings in energy costs over time.
Energy independence
By installing solar panels, homeowners and businesses can generate their own electricity, reducing their dependence on the grid and traditional energy sources.
Government incentives
Many governments offer incentives, such as tax credits and rebates, for installing solar panels, making them even more attractive to consumers.
Overall, solar panels are popular because they offer a clean, renewable, and cost-effective energy source that can help to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and combat climate change.