Disadvantages of solar panels need to be considered whether you are comparing them to staying on the grid or comparing them to other “green” energy sources like hydro or wind. Cost, location (climate and clouds), space (batteries and solar panels), maintenance and disposal should all be considered.

First, cost has historically been prohibitive for most potential consumers. But the price of coal energy is going up and the price of solar energy is going down. Soon, probably in a few years, cost will be a non-issue.

Second, location will continue to be an issue for solar energy use. Wet climates will corrode exposed parts more quickly and should be figured into your cost analysis as should areas that get a lot of hail. Cloudy areas may not get enough sun exposure. But clouds aren’t necessarily a problem as shown by Germany’s use of photovoltaics. So does it belong to disadvantages of solar panels or not- up to you!

Third, space for both storage batteries and solar panels can be an issue. Batteries to power your house when the sun isn’t out can take up a significant amount of space. If you are on an electrical grid, you don’t need any batteries. You use your solar power during the day, then use grid power at night. Solar panels can be unsightly and used to cover the whole roof. Today, the panels have gotten smaller and technology is allowing them to blend in better.

Fourth, maintenance can be an issue. When your solar power goes out, you can’t just call the power company. If you don’t have an experienced photovoltaic energy technician in your area or if you are not willing to be a bit of a handyman, maintenance is definitely an issue! But if you think you can handle minor repairs now and then, you’ll be fine. Solar power is very dependable and usually requires little work.

Fifth, proper disposal of the panels and the batteries when they are at the end of their useful life is important. Both the storage batteries and the panels contain materials that are very toxic. Lead, sulfuric acid, and cadmium telluride are all used in the manufacture of either the batteries or the panels. The batteries are 98% recyclable and technology promises advances in the development of more eco-friendly photovoltaic cell production.

Disadvantages of solar panels are there, but most of them are decreasing with the advances in technology. Assess your solar situation wisely. Determine how many watts your household uses on average and at peak usage. Look up your sun exposure in an almanac. Incorporate this information into a list of advantages and disadvantages of solar panels as they apply to your situation. Then you can figure out how photovoltaic power can work for you.