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solar power - "Solar Power Versus Generator – The
Choice:"
As I write this in early 2007, the controversy over
global warming has heated up (pun intended), and people are taking another
look at solar power versus generator. For those living outside the power
grid, the second look may save not only the green in the rain forest, but
also the green in the bank.
Many who live "off the grid" in
isolated locations have traditionally relied on generators for electrical
power. Others have installed generators for back-up, emergency electrical
power. Neither thought there was a choice, but now there is a choice:
solar power versus generator.
In this article, we look at the choice.
Which is more economical; more convenient; more environmentally friendly?
Should you make the change?
Solar Power versus Generator - Cost
The cost of solar power versus generator is much less over the
long term.
The initial cost of a solar power system will be greater
than that of a generator system. This is often the reason people install a
generator rather than choose solar power. One must look beyond the initial
cost, however, to get the full comparison of solar power versus
generator.
* Solar power, once installed, has little maintenance or
further expense. There is no fuel to purchase, since the sun's energy
fuels the system.
* Generators are not so. After installation, a
generator will require regular servicing by a professional every 6 months.
Generators require fuel – a cost that is constantly increasing. Moving
generator parts must be replaced from time to time due to wear and
tear.
Solar Power versus Generator – Convenience
Convenience is another factor to consider when looking at solar
power versus generator power. Solar power is much more convenient than
generator power.
* Solar power may be less convenient to purchase
and install, since it is not as widely available as generators. This is
due to the currently small market for solar power. As the market
increases, however, this will be less of a problem. Solar power systems
have no moving parts to wear out or need lubrication. Once installed,
solar power requires little attention. The user can almost forget
it.
* Generators are widely available, so convenient to purchase
and install. Convenience decreases after installation, though. A generator
must be monitored frequently to be sure sufficient fuel is available. It
must be refilled often when used as a regular source of power. Fuel must
be ordered and delivery taken – or fuel must be hauled by the owner. The
system must be serviced twice a year. This servicing will include filter
changes, an oil change, a tune up, and complete inspection of the entire
unit. Worn parts must be replaced.
Solar Power versus Generator –
Efficiency
The solar power versus generator battle includes the
matter of efficiency, too. Which is more cost-effective? The facts seem to
point to solar power.
* Solar power is received in through the
panels, free of cost, and stored in batteries. It is ready for use when
needed, but in times of reduced usage, the power remains in
storage.
* Generators run constantly, regardless of the amount of
power being used at a given time. As they run, they consume costly fuel.
When power usage is reduced in bright daylight, generators must continue
to run.
Solar Power versus Generator – Dependability
Some
argue that, in comparing solar power versus generator, we must compare the
dependability factor. In this area, they claim, generators win.
*
Solar power is very dependable in locations that have bright sunlight 300+
days of the year. In areas with less sunlight, or during periods of
cloudiness and storm, solar power is less dependable. The system will
continue to provide power from charged batteries, but will eventually go
dead. Having said that, it must be noted that Germany, which has far fewer
sunny days than most of North America, is said to have much higher usage
of solar power. The problem of dependability seems not that big.
*
Generator systems do not depend on sunlight. They do, however, depend on
fuel. If storms or some other disaster hinders one from replenishing the
fuel supply, generators also become useless.
Solar Power versus
Generator – Eco-friendliness
Finally, eco-friendliness must be
considered in any discussion of solar power versus generator. That is,
which is kinder to the environment: solar power or generator? The obvious
answer again is solar power.
* Solar power has no emissions when
working. There is no pollution involved in fuel production – no greenhouse
gases. It is totally clean. Solar power uses a renewable energy
source.
* A big drawback to generator use is still the matter of
emissions and the environment. Generators are usually run on diesel fuel,
and diesel fuel is produced from a fossil fuel. There are emissions in the
production of the fuel, and also in its use. Diesel generators are a major
source of air pollution and high sulfur levels in North America. Exposure
to diesel generator exhaust can lead to health hazards.
Solar
Power versus Generator – the Solution
For most people, the
resolution of the solar power versus generator debate is to install a
hybrid system. Using solar power as the main energy source will save
money. The fuel is free. Solar power is convenient, efficient, and
eco-friendly. What it lacks in dependability can be made up by having a
small back-up generator for prolonged cloudy periods.
My
Choice
When I compare solar power versus generator, I definitely
have to choose solar power. It is clean, free, quiet, and
peaceful.
By: Anna Hart |
