Why Don’t New Homes Have Solar Panels?

The use of solar energy has gained in popularity in recent years and it has become more important to consider efficient and renewable sources of energy. Solar panels can reduce a home’s dependence on traditional power and directly translate into huge savings on electricity bills. Unfortunately, solar panels are rarely found on newly constructed homes. Why is that?

Introduction

Solar panels have become increasingly attractive. Their high efficiency, their ability to save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars each year on electricity bills, and their environmental friendliness make them a great choice for homeowners who want to reduce their energy costs and “go green”. Solar panels have become an iconic symbol of reducing carbon emissions and of aiming for a sustainable energy future.

These solar panels, however, are rarely, if ever seen on newly constructed homes. This does not mean that solar panels are not possible, but there are a few factors in considering why having them installed in newly build homes could be complex and costly.

Reasons Why New Homes Do Not Have Solar Panels

One of the most basic reasons why solar panels are not often seen on newly constructed homes is due to their lack of capacity to store energy for future use. Solar power is great during the time of day when it is produced. However, as the sun sets, the amount of energy produced by the solar panels also decreases. In order to make sure that homes are still getting the electricity they need even at night, solar panels require a storage system, typically battery banks.

Adding battery banks to the cost of solar panel installation can make it far more expensive than originally planned. A battery system to the solar panels can easily cost thousands of dollars and add to the complexity of the installation. This makes solar panels a less attractive choice for newly constructed homes.

Alternatives For Improving Energy Efficiency For New Homes

Fortunately, there are other options for improving energy efficiency when constructing new homes. One of the most basic steps is to install LED lighting in the home, as these can reduce energy consumption by up to 80%. Investing in high efficiency appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators and washing machines can also cut down on electricity costs. A well-insulated home, including in the walls and other areas that heat escapes, can provide a warm and cozy home, while keeping energy costs down.

Solutions For Incorporating Solar Panels Into New Build Homes

If the goal is to incorporate solar panels into a newly constructed home, there are a few solutions. One of these is to consider installing battery storage with the solar panels. Battery banks have become cheaper in recent years, due in part to a surge in EV and hybrid vehicles, and now it is possible to find relatively affordable systems.

Another solution is to consider taking advantage of government financial incentives for installing solar panels. Depending on where you live, there could be tax credits and other incentives that can help cover the cost of the solar panel installation and the addition of a battery bank.

Finally, it is important to consider the longterm costs of installing solar panels. As electricity prices continue to rise, solar panel system costs decrease while their efficiency increases. Therefore, investing in a solar panel system now could be a great way to save money on energy costs in the long run.

Conclusion

The importance of improving energy efficiency in newly build homes cannot be overstated. Solar panels, while complex and costly to install, represent a great option when it comes to reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.

By taking advantage of government incentives, investing in battery storage, and considering the longterm cost savings of solar panel installation, new home owners can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without the hefty upfront costs.

The overall reduction of energy costs and the resulting longterm energy savings make solar panels a great choice for those looking to construct a new home. With the right approach, there is no reason why solar panel systems cannot be incorporated into new builds, and why homeowners cannot benefit from the savings and efficiency of solar energy.