The decision to install a pv system is not a simple case. Whether it's housing, whether for business or for photovoltaic park, everyone is looking for the advantages and disadvantages of pv to decide. Need great market research and the stakeholders need to bend above all resistances.
Any of the resistors are completely normal. Most people don't know much about the solar panels and the things that he reads a lot of times I didn't understand. These, in combination with the several thousands of euros required for an investment in a photovoltaic system, leading many times a person in a negative answer.
In this article I will quote, in all honesty, so the advantages of the pv, as well as its disadvantages. Mostly cons, so you can compare and determine if they outweigh the advantages or disadvantages.
The advantages of photovoltaic systems
Advantage #1: Photovoltaics are a proven technology
Although most people believe that photovoltaics are a new technology and currently in fashion, the reality is quite different. The history of photovoltaic systems begins at a scientific experimental level in the early 1800s. The first photovoltaic cell capable of converting solar energy into electricity was constructed in 1954. By 1983, production from photovoltaics exceeded 21 megawatts.
All of these decades, have shown the way to renewable energy sources. Nowadays, more and more homes and businesses using the proven technology of photovoltaic systems.
Advantage #2: Photovoltaics operate in most climatic conditions
Many believe that photovoltaics do not work in areas with colder climates compared to others. This is not true, as photovoltaic panels actually operate more effectively at lower temperatures. Excessive heat can reduce output voltage. Certainly, the longer the panels are exposed to sunlight, the more electricity they will produce. However, modern panels are quite efficient and can generate energy even in lower sunlight conditions. This makes photovoltaics ideal for every region of Greece, as there is no place in the country that experiences 24-hour... night.
Advantage #3: Photovoltaics have become economically accessible, and there are also subsidies available
One of the advantages of the current era of photovoltaic systems is that they have become economically accessible. In fact, prices have significantly decreased compared to a decade ago. Back then, we must admit that photovoltaics were considered a kind of luxury.
To illustrate how economically advantageous photovoltaics are today, we would like to present a statistic from our company, ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables. In 2011, to install a 10kW photovoltaic system in a residence, the interested party would have to spend approximately €20,000–€30,000. Today, our prices for a 10kW photovoltaic system range from €7,500 to €9,500. Moreover, the quality has not decreased, as we use panels and inverters of German technology, and the unique Japanese inverter we use is from the well-known giant HUAWEI. Similarly, a 100kW photovoltaic park that cost around €170,000 ten years ago now costs about €67,000, with services that include everything from the initial stages of planning to the delivery of the photovoltaic system ready for operation.
If you add, therefore, that in these reduced prices there are, at times, and subsidies such as SAVE – I AM INDEPENDENT for residences and programs NSRF for business, programmes, which also takes the company offering comprehensive services, then it becomes clear how affordable they have become the photovoltaic current era.
Advantage #4: Photovoltaic systems save money, and parks offer high returns
This needs to be understood that all stakeholders is how a photovoltaic it is an investment. An investment is calculated and evaluated over time. Invested namely a couple of thousands of euros, and the result of this investment will need to be translated also in euro.
Savings from residential photovoltaics
Starting from the homes, let's assume that a house mount photovoltaic 10kW. Assume that the pv cost about €9.500, and will be compared to a home that does not have solar. In both cases we assume that the two homes are needed each year to 13,000 kWh, as well as meet the needs of heating and cooling with a heat pump.
The following table shows us that the house has a photovoltaic system, saves per year in the amount of €1774,10.
This means that in just 5 years ago, the family of the photovoltaic system will write off the cost of installation of €9.500, and for the rest of about 20 years, as well as the lifetime of a photovoltaic is 25 years, you will save an amount of the order of €35.482 which would otherwise be paid to the power. So one person for a photovoltaic system must have wondered if I wanted to save, depending on the kW will be installed, that's enough money in the long run. It is good to mention that the solar panels are now increasing the value of a dwelling in the event of a sale.
In 8.5 years, since the lifespan of a photovoltaic system is 25 years, a homeowner can save an amount of approximately €17,027.40, which they would otherwise pay for electricity. Therefore, anyone considering a photovoltaic system should ask themselves if they would like to save a significant amount of money over time, depending on the kW they choose to install. It’s also worth noting that photovoltaics now increase the value of a property in the event of a sale.
Savings from photovoltaics for businesses – industries – crafts
We continue with an example for photovoltaic enterprises – industries – crafts. The purpose of all business is to reduce their operating costs and increase their profitability. With that money you will be able to move in new investments for their business which will lead to further profitability and growth.
Let’s assume that a business installs a 20 kW photovoltaic system at a cost of around €14,000. A simple calculation rule is as follows: each kW of installed photovoltaics reduces the total bill by €250 annually. In our example, this means a reduction of €5,000 per year for a business.
The table below, reflects the profitability of the investment of a net metering photovoltaic 20kW to a company.
As we can see, the damping is achieved in the first three years and at a depth of 25 years, the company saves more than €110.000, which would otherwise be paid to the power. A concerned businessman has to wonder how many investments can achieve payback in just 3 years, and an amount of the order of €110.000, which saves you in the long run, how much development could bring to the company.
Returns from photovoltaic parks
Finally, we have photovoltaic parks that are purely investment-oriented and sell electricity, generating an annual income.
Let’s assume that an individual is "building" a 100 kW photovoltaic park at a cost of €67,000 and has signed a sales contract at €65/MWh. This means that each year the photovoltaic park will generate €9,100, resulting in a total of €227,500 over 25 years.
Therefore, the annual return amounts to 13.6% of his initial investment. If he did not have land and had to spend a significant amount to acquire it, let’s say a considerable sum of €20,000, increasing the total cost to €87,000, he would still enjoy high annual returns of around 10.5%.
If we consider that real estate companies are satisfied with annual returns of about 8%, and for many of them this percentage is unattainable, it becomes clear how advantageous a photovoltaic park is as an option.
Advantage #5: Photovoltaic panels require little maintenance and have a long lifespan
In general, photovoltaic systems require little maintenance, as they are highly durable and have a lifespan of 25 years. It is advisable for the owner to keep them relatively clean. This can be achieved with a cleaning once or twice a year, but it is not absolute. Additionally, many companies that manufacture photovoltaic panels offer long-term warranties that can extend up to 25 years.
The only accessory that may need to be changed in all these years, usually per 5 years or 10 years, it is the inverter, as well as working tirelessly for the conversion of solar energy into electric current.
The disadvantages of photovoltaic systems
Disadvantage #1: Solar panels do not work at night
There are too many people who are interested in autonomous completely from the network and to be transported in autonomous photovoltaic systems. In most cases, however, this is not something that is realistic. Although more and more companies are now in the promotion of autonomous photovoltaic systems, which operate with batteries (accumulators), the solution is not yet widespread.
Primarily, the photovoltaic energy works in real time and any "excess" is stored in the network. Households rely on the providers of power during the night and when there is limited sunshine.
Disadvantage #2: Solar panels are not aesthetically pleasing and take up a lot of space
The aesthetic is a significant factor for every homeowner. Besides, those who live in a detached house, which is primarily suitable for the installation of household solar roof, have shaped the house of them that you like them.
Although there are many efforts panels to be as discreet as they can, yet is not at the appropriate level, while occupy much room.
AtΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we place great emphasis on aesthetics. That’s why we have chosen panels of specific shapes for our customers. Our goal is to achieve installations that are as aesthetically pleasing as possible, from the panels to the placement of the inverter.
Disadvantage #3: It is not effective on all rooftops, and there are issues with shared spaces
It is a fact that a pv system is not efficient in every building, and this depends on both the roof and the shadows that are there. For there is the greatest possible performance, there should be plenty of room and to "accept" the rays of the sun when they are available. However, companies and qualified engineers are now finding solutions for these issues.
In public areas such as the roof of a building required the consent of all owners, which in several cases is not achieved.
Disadvantage #4: They have an impact on the environment
The photovoltaic panel is an industrial product that is manufactured. As is the case in any construction of this kind, there are associated environmental impact of the chemicals used in their manufacture. This placement, it is indeed the case, that's why we include the disadvantages but while all this is happening with most of the industrial products, the solar panels have a smaller environmental impact.
The benefits to the environment in the long term is more than the environmental cost of manufacturing the panels.
Disadvantage #5: Not all panels are of high quality
There are very few panels on the market that do not have the same efficiency with the rest. However, it is not only the efficiency but also the durability, reliability and design.
This is one reason why we suggest our clients not to focus only on price but to look at the overall benefits and efficiency in general, as well as mentioned, this is not a simple product, but for a long-term investment.
It is suggested always be a good market research, and we strongly encourage the purchase of high-quality panels, as well as the owner I have for almost three decades.
Which outweighs the other? The advantages or the disadvantages?
Above we have tried in all honesty, numbers, and facts, in several cases, listing the major advantages and disadvantages of photovoltaics.
If outweigh the pros or cons, it's something you'll decide for yourself. Besides, the final decision is always of the interested party.
Photovoltaics by ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables: By your side every step of the way
At ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we have experience in the study and installation of photovoltaics. We have installed photovoltaic parks as well as systems for residences and businesses throughout Greece, including islands. We handle all the processes, from potential financing to the study, the submission of the application, the installation, and we deliver your photovoltaic system turnkey.
Are you interested in photovoltaic; Click on the button “I Want a phone appointment” below, fill out the form and a competent engineer will contact with you to solve all your questions and to guide you to the right decision.
Read also
Advantages and disadvantages of photovoltaic
George Kotakis
Electrical Engineer |
ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Autonomous
The decision to install a pv system is not a simple case. Whether it's housing, whether for business or for photovoltaic park, everyone is looking for the advantages and disadvantages of pv to decide. Need great market research and the stakeholders need to bend above all resistances.
Any of the resistors are completely normal. Most people don't know much about the solar panels and the things that he reads a lot of times I didn't understand. These, in combination with the several thousands of euros required for an investment in a photovoltaic system, leading many times a person in a negative answer.
In this article I will quote, in all honesty, so the advantages of the pv, as well as its disadvantages. Mostly cons, so you can compare and determine if they outweigh the advantages or disadvantages.
The advantages of photovoltaic systems
Advantage #1: Photovoltaics are a proven technology
Although most people believe that photovoltaics are a new technology and currently in fashion, the reality is quite different. The history of photovoltaic systems begins at a scientific experimental level in the early 1800s. The first photovoltaic cell capable of converting solar energy into electricity was constructed in 1954. By 1983, production from photovoltaics exceeded 21 megawatts.
All of these decades, have shown the way to renewable energy sources. Nowadays, more and more homes and businesses using the proven technology of photovoltaic systems.
Advantage #2: Photovoltaics operate in most climatic conditions
Many believe that photovoltaics do not work in areas with colder climates compared to others. This is not true, as photovoltaic panels actually operate more effectively at lower temperatures. Excessive heat can reduce output voltage. Certainly, the longer the panels are exposed to sunlight, the more electricity they will produce. However, modern panels are quite efficient and can generate energy even in lower sunlight conditions. This makes photovoltaics ideal for every region of Greece, as there is no place in the country that experiences 24-hour... night.
Advantage #3: Photovoltaics have become economically accessible, and there are also subsidies available
One of the advantages of the current era of photovoltaic systems is that they have become economically accessible. In fact, prices have significantly decreased compared to a decade ago. Back then, we must admit that photovoltaics were considered a kind of luxury.
To illustrate how economically advantageous photovoltaics are today, we would like to present a statistic from our company, ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables. In 2011, to install a 10kW photovoltaic system in a residence, the interested party would have to spend approximately €20,000–€30,000. Today, our prices for a 10kW photovoltaic system range from €7,500 to €9,500. Moreover, the quality has not decreased, as we use panels and inverters of German technology, and the unique Japanese inverter we use is from the well-known giant HUAWEI. Similarly, a 100kW photovoltaic park that cost around €170,000 ten years ago now costs about €67,000, with services that include everything from the initial stages of planning to the delivery of the photovoltaic system ready for operation.
If you add, therefore, that in these reduced prices there are, at times, and subsidies such as SAVE – I AM INDEPENDENT for residences and programs NSRF for business, programmes, which also takes the company offering comprehensive services, then it becomes clear how affordable they have become the photovoltaic current era.
Advantage #4: Photovoltaic systems save money, and parks offer high returns
This needs to be understood that all stakeholders is how a photovoltaic it is an investment. An investment is calculated and evaluated over time. Invested namely a couple of thousands of euros, and the result of this investment will need to be translated also in euro.
Savings from residential photovoltaics
Starting from the homes, let's assume that a house mount photovoltaic 10kW. Assume that the pv cost about €9.500, and will be compared to a home that does not have solar. In both cases we assume that the two homes are needed each year to 13,000 kWh, as well as meet the needs of heating and cooling with a heat pump.
The following table shows us that the house has a photovoltaic system, saves per year in the amount of €1774,10.
This means that in just 5 years ago, the family of the photovoltaic system will write off the cost of installation of €9.500, and for the rest of about 20 years, as well as the lifetime of a photovoltaic is 25 years, you will save an amount of the order of €35.482 which would otherwise be paid to the power. So one person for a photovoltaic system must have wondered if I wanted to save, depending on the kW will be installed, that's enough money in the long run. It is good to mention that the solar panels are now increasing the value of a dwelling in the event of a sale.
In 8.5 years, since the lifespan of a photovoltaic system is 25 years, a homeowner can save an amount of approximately €17,027.40, which they would otherwise pay for electricity. Therefore, anyone considering a photovoltaic system should ask themselves if they would like to save a significant amount of money over time, depending on the kW they choose to install. It’s also worth noting that photovoltaics now increase the value of a property in the event of a sale.
Savings from photovoltaics for businesses – industries – crafts
We continue with an example for photovoltaic enterprises – industries – crafts. The purpose of all business is to reduce their operating costs and increase their profitability. With that money you will be able to move in new investments for their business which will lead to further profitability and growth.
Let’s assume that a business installs a 20 kW photovoltaic system at a cost of around €14,000. A simple calculation rule is as follows: each kW of installed photovoltaics reduces the total bill by €250 annually. In our example, this means a reduction of €5,000 per year for a business.
The table below, reflects the profitability of the investment of a net metering photovoltaic 20kW to a company.
As we can see, the damping is achieved in the first three years and at a depth of 25 years, the company saves more than €110.000, which would otherwise be paid to the power. A concerned businessman has to wonder how many investments can achieve payback in just 3 years, and an amount of the order of €110.000, which saves you in the long run, how much development could bring to the company.
Returns from photovoltaic parks
Finally, we have photovoltaic parks that are purely investment-oriented and sell electricity, generating an annual income.
Let’s assume that an individual is "building" a 100 kW photovoltaic park at a cost of €67,000 and has signed a sales contract at €65/MWh. This means that each year the photovoltaic park will generate €9,100, resulting in a total of €227,500 over 25 years.
Therefore, the annual return amounts to 13.6% of his initial investment. If he did not have land and had to spend a significant amount to acquire it, let’s say a considerable sum of €20,000, increasing the total cost to €87,000, he would still enjoy high annual returns of around 10.5%.
If we consider that real estate companies are satisfied with annual returns of about 8%, and for many of them this percentage is unattainable, it becomes clear how advantageous a photovoltaic park is as an option.
Advantage #5: Photovoltaic panels require little maintenance and have a long lifespan
In general, photovoltaic systems require little maintenance, as they are highly durable and have a lifespan of 25 years. It is advisable for the owner to keep them relatively clean. This can be achieved with a cleaning once or twice a year, but it is not absolute. Additionally, many companies that manufacture photovoltaic panels offer long-term warranties that can extend up to 25 years.
The only accessory that may need to be changed in all these years, usually per 5 years or 10 years, it is the inverter, as well as working tirelessly for the conversion of solar energy into electric current.
The disadvantages of photovoltaic systems
Disadvantage #1: Solar panels do not work at night
There are too many people who are interested in autonomous completely from the network and to be transported in autonomous photovoltaic systems. In most cases, however, this is not something that is realistic. Although more and more companies are now in the promotion of autonomous photovoltaic systems, which operate with batteries (accumulators), the solution is not yet widespread.
Primarily, the photovoltaic energy works in real time and any "excess" is stored in the network. Households rely on the providers of power during the night and when there is limited sunshine.
Disadvantage #2: Solar panels are not aesthetically pleasing and take up a lot of space
The aesthetic is a significant factor for every homeowner. Besides, those who live in a detached house, which is primarily suitable for the installation of household solar roof, have shaped the house of them that you like them.
Although there are many efforts panels to be as discreet as they can, yet is not at the appropriate level, while occupy much room.
AtΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we place great emphasis on aesthetics. That’s why we have chosen panels of specific shapes for our customers. Our goal is to achieve installations that are as aesthetically pleasing as possible, from the panels to the placement of the inverter.
Disadvantage #3: It is not effective on all rooftops, and there are issues with shared spaces
It is a fact that a pv system is not efficient in every building, and this depends on both the roof and the shadows that are there. For there is the greatest possible performance, there should be plenty of room and to "accept" the rays of the sun when they are available. However, companies and qualified engineers are now finding solutions for these issues.
In public areas such as the roof of a building required the consent of all owners, which in several cases is not achieved.
Disadvantage #4: They have an impact on the environment
The photovoltaic panel is an industrial product that is manufactured. As is the case in any construction of this kind, there are associated environmental impact of the chemicals used in their manufacture. This placement, it is indeed the case, that's why we include the disadvantages but while all this is happening with most of the industrial products, the solar panels have a smaller environmental impact.
The benefits to the environment in the long term is more than the environmental cost of manufacturing the panels.
Disadvantage #5: Not all panels are of high quality
There are very few panels on the market that do not have the same efficiency with the rest. However, it is not only the efficiency but also the durability, reliability and design.
This is one reason why we suggest our clients not to focus only on price but to look at the overall benefits and efficiency in general, as well as mentioned, this is not a simple product, but for a long-term investment.
It is suggested always be a good market research, and we strongly encourage the purchase of high-quality panels, as well as the owner I have for almost three decades.
Which outweighs the other? The advantages or the disadvantages?
Above we have tried in all honesty, numbers, and facts, in several cases, listing the major advantages and disadvantages of photovoltaics.
If outweigh the pros or cons, it's something you'll decide for yourself. Besides, the final decision is always of the interested party.
Photovoltaics by ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables: By your side every step of the way
At ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we have experience in the study and installation of photovoltaics. We have installed photovoltaic parks as well as systems for residences and businesses throughout Greece, including islands. We handle all the processes, from potential financing to the study, the submission of the application, the installation, and we deliver your photovoltaic system turnkey.
Are you interested in photovoltaic; Click on the button “I Want a phone appointment” below, fill out the form and a competent engineer will contact with you to solve all your questions and to guide you to the right decision.
Read also
