Which Solar Panels Are the Best?

Solar panels have become increasingly popular over the last few years, with many people deciding they want to go “green” and use alternative energy. The most obvious advantages of solar panels are that they save you money on your utility bills every month. Over time, this will add up to significant savings, making them a great investment. But not everyone likes solar panels, so now there are several interesting solar panel promotions.

First, there’s the offline promotion. You can purchase solar power directly from dealerships or installers if you know where to look. For areas in which there is a surplus of sunlight, you may be able to get free panels from the government. If you live in an area that does not get enough sun or is otherwise limited in its sunshine hours, you can buy batteries for storing the energy you don’t need, allowing you to operate completely off the grid. There are also plenty of options in the remote locations that would not support free solar panels, but that can still provide a backup supply for power interruption.

Another solar panels promotion is buying panels from an installer or dealer. Often these companies can offer you discounts on both the equipment and installation, along with warranties on the materials used. A dealer might also offer the option to finance the purchase over a certain amount of time, reducing the overall cost even more. This can make them the obvious choice for anyone who wants to reduce their initial outlay and take advantage of tax credits as well.

There are also quite a few rebates being offered at present for various types of solar panels and equipment. As long as you own the system and keep it updated, you won’t be required to pay the rebates. Just remember, however, that these rebates are only available for new installs and those who procure the equipment before the end of the calendar year. Rebates will not apply to the cost of mounting or for the power itself.

And for those looking for something a bit cheaper than a brand new system, there are a number of second hand panels available on the market. This might seem like a bad idea in some situations, because you might assume that since they have been used so many times, their reliability is compromised. Fortunately, however, there are many people who are willing to sell their old equipment at a lower price. So this isn’t something you should dismiss as a drawback. However, keep in mind that if you’re going to use a second hand system, you might want to make sure it’s still under warranty, especially if you’re planning on installing the panel yourself.

Whether you opt for new or used panels, it’s important to remember that there are several different kinds. Some are better designed than others and produce better results. It’s up to you to choose which is right for you, depending upon how you intend to utilize the energy derived from the panels. Take a look at what’s on the market today and see what your options are. You may be pleasantly surprised!