Solar Electric Power vs. Wind Electric Power
Wind electric power has steadily increased in popularity, although it is still not as readily used as solar electric power. Why hasn’t wind electric power caught on as much as solar electric power and other alternative source of electricity? Here are some reasons:
• Wind power systems have moving parts, as opposed to solar electric power systems that are just installed and stay put. Moving parts break down easily and are more prone to trouble than solar panels that are in a solid state and don’t need as much repair. Wind turbines are difficult to maintain and may turn home owners into mechanics, which is not really something owners do not appreciate.
• Solar electric power has lesser requirements for open space. Wind electric power systems may require more space, so they can access more wind. Homeowners with small spaces cannot consider wind power.
• Wind power is more obtrusive than its solar power counterpart. Solar panels are less visible, as they are usually located on a roof or in the back yard. Passers-by do not usually find these pieces of equipment as eyesores, while wind turbines need to be up into the air, so that they can catch wind more efficiently. Permits for wind turbines may prove more difficult to obtain as they don’t really look visually pleasing and are very prominent.
• Solar panels do not create noise. Wind turbines do. Vibrations and noise produced by wind turbines can disturb neighbors. Zoning laws may prohibit noise-making machinery or equipment in residential areas.
Wind electric power may be less desirable than solar electric power based on the points raised above. But for some, wind power may still prove to be a workable option.
Comments
Leave a Reply
Top 3 recommended tips to save energy at home:
