There are many things to know when it comes to the similarities and differences of rooftop solar setups and solar farms. Both are great ways to use renewable energy, but each comes with their own advantages and disadvantages, unique to the customer who chooses to utilize solar energy.
Rooftop Solar and Solar Farms
Rooftop solar setups are photovoltaic panels that are installed on the roofs of homes. Excess energy is sent to a utility grid for other customers to use. The energy is measured with two meters. One meter measures the energy generated by the panels, and the other measures the energy that is being used. Homeowners are paid for the energy they generate, and deducted for the energy that they consume.
Solar farms consist of towers rigged with solar panels. The towers are in sync with the sun, which increases energy production, and power gets put into a utility grid. Customers buy solar panels from the farm and get paid for production, and deducted for consumption.
The biggest difference between the two involves the potential energy that could be produced. Limiting roof factors could make the solar farm more advantageous to some customers. Below is a list of additional things to consider.
Maintenance, Aesthetics, and Land Management
Very little maintenance is required on solar panels, though if damage is incurred on a rooftop panel, the homeowner is responsible. Solar farms minimize that inconvenience.
As for looks, solar panels are an obvious addition to a rooftop. Solar farms, on the other hand, allow homeowners to reap the benefits of solar energy without the green look.
Land management creates a philosophical dilemma for some, as the solar farm land could be allocated for agriculture or development. Rooftop solar panels, however, use space that is already unusable.
Cost and Energy Independence
The setup costs of a rooftop solar array versus owning panels on a solar farm are relatively similar. In the long run though, it has been observed that solar farms are more cost effective. According to a Brattle Group study, it was nearly half the cost for a solar farm to generate the same amount of energy of a rooftop setup.
Energy independence is only possible if customers choose rooftop setups. While solar farms are green and sustainable, customers are still dependent on an energy company.
Conclusion
Rooftop panels are great for people who are looking to be green, gain independence from energy companies, and save on energy bills. On the other hand, solar farms involve dependence on energy companies, but could be an even better way to further save on energy bills, while still allowing customers to be sustainable. Personal preference is key.