SOLAR COST

People often ask how much does solar power cost.   This is a more complex question than it appears to be on the surface.  Most people think of the costs in terms of solar panel installation and the setup of solar charging systems.  When they are thinking about buying solar they are looking strictly at installation costs for the system.  

While on some level they may be aware of the need for clean energy, this is often a secondary consideration to costs.   There are other considerations besides breaking down the kilowatt cost per hour of your solar system over the lifetime of the unit.    It is likely that other sources of energy will rise substantially, particularly those derived from fossil fuels such as coal and oil. Petroleum products are in alarming short supply globally and usage of centralized power requires a centralized system with all of its delivery overhead costs.

In addition to the transport, extraction and storage fees that are associated with centralized power, you are completely at the mercy of the power company should your financial situation fluctuate in the future.   By stepping back from the grid and providing your own power, you give yourself freedom to sell surplus energy that you produce as well as free yourself from a substantial monthly payment which may fluctuate considerably as the years go by.

The beauty of solar power is that you are not only producing energy for your own needs, but have the option of helping to support the grid by selling back surplus power production.  If a storm damages power lines or other causes of interruption occur to your neighbors, you are strategically more likely to be immune.   In the event that your local system is damaged, you can always flip the switch and draw from the grid, but chances are much greater that you will be providing for the grid.

SMART GRID
The smart grid will attempt to manage centralized power distribution and track every bit of energy that is used which will provide an alarming amount of information about your energy usage habits.  This is information marketers don’t really need, and the potential for intrusive legislation is always possible.    By providing your own power, you can simply obtain the permits and disconnect from the grid, giving yourself freedom in a way that most people will simply never have.

When evaluating the true solar cost, these intangibles can be important.   Part of the solar cost is the purchase of freedom, privacy and independence in an increasingly intrusive world.  By joining those who prefer a decentralized grid, you are removing authoritative power structures at the literal roots of power.   In addition to being a good citizen and increasing the nations resilience against terrorist attacks, you are standing up for your fundamental rights of autonomy.

When looking at solar cost, it is important to also ask yourself what is the cost of not having solar, and is it a price I’m willing to pay.   The answer to that question should put you on the right track regardless of your philosophies on the global energy shortage and climate factors that many claim require a quick transition to alternative energy.