Many people are switching to renewable energy source today because of their advantages. With a renewable energy system installed on your property, you can expect to see a reduction in your monthly electricity bills. You’ll also be doing your part to protect the environment.
However, deciding to switch will require several considerations, which will involve a comprehensive planning process. Generally, the brainstorming task will cover several aspects, such as assessing your current electricity consumption and knowing the local codes and requirements in your locality. It also includes deciding whether to stay or go off the grid and familiarizing yourself with the available renewable energy options suitable for your location.
Why Make The Switch To Renewable Energy Source?
For many homeowners, the decision to switch to a renewable energy system is due to the capability to produce electricity independently. Most people like the autonomy that these energy systems provide.
However, before you make the switch, make sure you understand how it works and how to manage it. Most importantly, switching to renewable energy will require financial commitment.
Meanwhile, solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and hybrid systems combining solar and wind power are all examples of renewable energy sources. Some of the renewable energy systems are already capable of supplying your home’s electricity needs. Hence, you’ll also have the assurance knowing that switching to renewable energy will benefit the environment.
Useful Tips When Planning A Renewable Energy Source/System For Your Home
If you’re going to remodel your home or construct a new one, working with reliable providers of solar panels in Brisbane or other forms of renewable energy systems would be a good starting point.
Here are some helpful tips to remember during the planning process once you’ve found a reputable provider.
Assess The Current Electricity Load Of Your Home
When planning the switch to a renewable energy system, the initial consideration is to determine your current electrical consumption.
The assessment is important because it’ll be used to figure out how big a system you need to meet the energy demands of your home. This will also include measures for reducing power use by studying how your energy consumption varies throughout the year.
On the other hand, a professional will perform a load analysis to assess your electrical consumption. It entails recording the wattage and average daily use of all electrical appliances and equipment, including lights, televisions, refrigerators, and power tools, to name a few.
Significantly, implementing energy-efficient measures in your household before investing in a renewable energy system can help cut down your electrical consumption. For instance, the refrigerator is one of the loads that use electricity continuously, while the rest, known as selectable loads, use electricity only when you use them.
If you decide to use the selectable loads only if you have extra power available, your home might be suitable for a smaller renewable energy system.
Determine The Renewable Energy Codes And Protocols In Your Area
Each state has specific codes or protocols to follow regarding renewable energy systems. Local regulations may determine the type of renewable energy system you can invest in. It can also affect whether you decide to link your system to the mainline or go entirely off the grid.
In addition, the local energy officials or a renewable energy provider should be able to discuss the requirements, especially if you decide on connecting your system to the grid. Building codes, easements, local ordinances, and technology-related requirements are all common requirements, whether you choose a grid-connected or stand-alone system.
Select The Suitable Renewable Energy Source/System For Your Home
Depending on the renewable source you want to invest in, you need to research or gain an understanding of how each system works. Plus, you need to consider the availability, costs, sizing, codes, and installation or maintenance requirements.
Moreover, renewable energy systems can also function alone, combined, or with a conventional system, resulting in a hybrid setup. Some of the popular renewable energy sources are the following:
- The solar electric, or photovoltaic, system is a cost-effective and pollution-free power source. This is especially true if you reside in a location with abundant sunshine throughout the year.
- A wind system is also a cost-effective renewable energy source. Aside from providing power to your home, it can also be an ideal option for other applications, especially on farms and ranches.
- Microhydropower systems can produce a sufficient supply of electricity for your home. If there’s a water source on your property, a small hydropower system can generate electricity.
- A hybrid or a combination of wind and solar systems can be suitable if you need continuous power throughout the day since each system has different peak operating times.
Among the different renewable energy sources, biomass is also worth checking out. It’s a renewable energy source, usually from plants and animals, to generate heat or electricity. It has various applications, such as powering electric generators and other machinery.
Look For A Reputable Installer
Once you decide to switch to a renewable energy source, it can be a significant investment depending on the type you choose. And since it requires an investment, it’s important to work with a certified installer. When you work with a certified installer, you have peace of mind that their work complies with the building protocols.
Gather Several Quotes For Comparison
When you shortlist a few reputable renewable energy system providers in your area, you should gather a minimum of three quotes. This will help you compare and decide on which one fits your budget and specific needs. Furthermore, this will help you figure out if wind or solar power is suitable for you.
On the other hand, be wary of installers with pushy sales techniques such as high prices with large discounts if you sign up on the spot. Remember to avoid comparing the installers on the basis of the price of their services alone. The most affordable service might not give you the best results in most cases.
Final Thoughts on Renewable Energy Source
Deciding to switch to a renewable energy source can be one of the best decisions. When you find your monthly utility bills too much to bear or want to do your part in preserving the environment, a renewable energy source is an option worth considering. Taking into consideration these valuable pointers will ensure your renewable energy source investment will be a worthy one.
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