Discover the world of solar energy with its benefits and challenges. Save on your energy bills, enjoy independence and increase the value of your home with solar panels. But beware, high costs, aesthetic impact and changing legislation require careful consideration. Find out all about it in this article.
Advantages solar panels
Saving money
On the one hand, you will save energy on your energy bill because you won’t have to pay money to your energy supplier. On the other hand, solar panels also bring money in the long run. You will have recouped the investment after about six to eight years. A positive point about solar panels is also that the sun does not have to shine all the time and daylight is often sufficient.
Independent energy
As mentioned earlier, you are no longer dependent on your energy suppliers and therefore not on their fluctuating prices. You generate your own energy so you don’t have to rely on that outside supplier.
Environmentally friendly
Solar panels have no CO2 emissions and therefore do not produce greenhouse gases. You can also easily recycle your solar panels when they need replacing. 90% can be reused so you don’t have to buy new ones.
Grants & subsidies
The government wants to encourage green energy so that’s why at the regional level they often give premiums to individuals to motivate them. They want to convince people to make a purchase that can contribute to a greener world.
Property appreciation
If you would like to sell your house later, adding solar panels is definitely an advantage because it increases the value of your home. Therefore, this allows you to raise the asking price. Why does the value increase? You have less monthly expenses and the EPC label is more favorable.
Little wear
You need to clean your solar panels regularly, but there is no real wear and tear. There are no moving parts on the panels, which also reduces the chance of this happening.
Quick installation
If you choose a good company, the solar panels can usually be on your roof within a few days.
Transportable
Are you moving? You can also simply take your solar panels with you to your new home. Just make sure you have them reinstalled by a licensed company.
Long lifespan
Solar panels last about 20 to 25 years. This is a long time considering that they pay for themselves within 10 years. So it is a very good long-term investment.
Conscious use
Owners of solar panels tend to be more conscious about their power consumption. This means lower costs and less burden on the environment. In addition, if you generate more energy than you consume, you receive compensation from the power company from the grid for it.
Disadvantages of solar panels
High purchase price
Solar panels cost about 250 euros per square meter. For example, if you want to put ten solar panels on your roof, you will spend about 5,000 euros.
Visually less attractive
A roof often loses its charm with the installation of solar panels. They are not the prettiest things around. In the meantime, make sure they are placed neatly next to each other so that everything definitely looks orderly.
Environmentally polluting materials
The materials required for the manufacturing process of solar panels are not very environmentally friendly. That same manufacturing process and the recycling of solar panels are also not immediately sustainable.
Decrease in efficiency
If you have lower-quality solar panels, they may start to lose value over time. Usually the loss is about 1% per year with quality panels.
Varying legislation
Solar panels remain fairly new so it is also somewhat less familiar territory for the government. Because of this, legislation regarding solar panels does dare to change. So this can create uncertainty.
Not enough power
If solar panels do not produce enough power, there may be additional costs involved. You will then have to use the general power grid which means new costs.
Modify meter box
After installing solar panels, the meter box needs to be adjusted. The installer can often do this for you. If you still have an old meter in your home, it might be a good idea to install a new one right away that no longer requires you to report readings.
Uncertain netting
As mentioned earlier, you get compensation when you generate more electricity than you consume. Only this compensation is quite uncertain. Often the supplier pays you nothing so it’s best to check this from time to time.
Expensive to maintain
Fortunately, solar panel maintenance should not be done often. They recommend it once every four years. Such a maintenance can cost a bit since they subject the panels to a thorough inspection.
Long payback period
The cost of your solar panels depends on the brand, number of panels and installation costs. The payback period is about six to eight years. This is longer than many other investments, but will bring a greater return after 25 years.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Save money | High purchase price |
| Independent energy | Visually less attractive |
| Environmentally friendly | Environmentally polluting materials |
| Premiums & subsidies | Decrease in return |
| Property value increase | Changing legislation |
| Little wear | Too little current |
| Quick installation | Modify meter box |
| Movable | Uncertain netting |
| Long lifespan | Expensive to maintain |
| Conscious use | Long payback period |
Solar panels: yes or no?
After considering the various pros and cons, the question arises: is it worth installing solar panels?
It is important to carefully weigh the pros and cons, taking into account individual circumstances, budget, and long-term goals. For some, solar panels may be a worthwhile investment, while others may prefer other options. Consider seeking professional advice and doing thorough research before making a decision on whether or not to install solar panels. We are already fans!
On your way to an energy-efficient home? Then take out a green loan!
Sources: zonnepanelen-gids.be, zonnepanelen-info.be & vastelastenbond.nl