With the world’s shift to sustainable energy, solar panels have become the preferred option for households and businesses. Yet many Indians believe that solar panel electricity is prohibitively expensive, leading to the question: why are solar panels expensive, and are solar panels cost effective? This concern has sparked interest in exploring alternative methods to transition to renewable energy without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most cost-effective ways to adopt renewable energy solutions while managing expenses.
At Mentor Group, we specialize in renewable energy solutions, including solar energy, and aim to provide the best quality services at affordable rates. If you’re interested in alternative energy sources and want to understand why solar energy is expensive, then this article will give you a detailed window into all the available options.
Why Are Solar Panels Expensive?
Before we begin looking at alternatives, let’s quickly explore why solar panels are pricey. The primary reason is the materials used, particularly silicon for manufacturing solar cells, which makes solar cells expensive. Additionally, installation, maintenance, and technology engagement contribute to the overall costs. While solar panels can provide long-term savings, the high upfront costs make it challenging for many Indian households and businesses to afford. So, are solar panels worth it in India?
And some alternatives to solar panels that won’t break your bank.
1. Solar Water Heaters
A solar water heater is one of the greatest practical alternatives to solar panels. Solar water heaters directly use sunlight to heat water, instead of generating electricity. The great thing about this system is that it will be perfect for those homes that use a lot of hot water and want to lower their electric bills.
- How it works -: A solar water heater is a system that utilises solar collectors which trap the sun’s heat, heating water in a storage tank. The heated water can be used to bath, cook and other domestic uses.
- Cost-effective -: Solar water heater is much less expensive than getting solar panels, and solar water heater gives a particular savings of energy.
At Mentor Group, we provide high-quality solar water heating solutions to help you reduce energy costs without the high upfront investment of solar panels. If you need more details, please call us at +91735 100 2123.
2. Wind Energy Systems
The other alternative to relatively pricey solar panels is the small wind turbines. Despite the prevalence of large wind farms, wind energy can also come from your home through the installation of smaller turbines.
How it works: Wind is used to generate electricity with wind turbines. The blades on the turbine spin as the wind does so, and it powers a generator which makes electricity.
Ideal for windy locations, wind turbines are a good option for those living in areas with strong winds. They can produce a considerable amount of electricity depending on wind conditions. When considering solar panels vs electricity generation methods, wind energy presents a viable alternative, especially in regions where solar panels may be less effective due to weather conditions.
While much more expensive initially than wind turbines, wind turbines are sometimes less expensive than installing solar panels. If you’re unsure whether your location is suitable for wind energy, Mentor Group can help assess your property and recommend the best solution.
3. Biogas Systems
In most cases, rural areas of India have plenty of organic waste and may find biogas an excellent alternative to solar energy. Biogas systems convert organic waste, such as animal manure and kitchen waste, into usable energy.
- How it works -: Biogas systems use anaerobic digestion to break down organic matter, releasing methane gas. It can then be used as a fuel for cooking or warming, and is some type of gas that we realise is not really other than what it is.
- Low cost -: A relatively inexpensive biogas system can be installed, and it provides a renewable energy source to compliment aggregate management.
At Mentor Group, we can guide you through setting up a biogas system that meets your energy needs.
4. Solar Air Heaters
Solar air heaters are another cost-effective alternative to solar panels. Finally, these systems are made to heat air using the sun and can be a great option where heating is required (in areas with cold climate).
- How it works -: Solar air heaters capture sunlight and convert it into heat. The air is then circulated throughout your home, creating less of a need for electrical heating.
- Simple and affordable -: Solar air heaters are cheaper than full solar panel installations and can significantly reduce your heating costs.
At Mentor Group, we offer solar air heating solutions that are easy to install and maintain, providing a great way to reduce electricity consumption.
Contact us today and book a no-cost consultation with our experts.
5. Micro-Hydropower Systems
For those living near water sources, micro-hydropower systems can be a viable alternative to solar panels. These systems are centred on the flow of water and generate electricity.
- How it works -: Micro-hydropower systems capture the energy from flowing water and convert it into electricity using a turbine and generator.
- Suitable for rural areas -: Rivers or streams with access to rural areas are good potential for micro hydropower. It is a reliable yet cheap source of renewable energy that can be produced, but it requires particular geographical conditions.
At Mentor Group, we offer a range of hydropower solutions designed to meet your energy needs at an affordable price.
6. Community Solar Programs
If you can’t afford to install solar panels for yourself, consider using a community solar program instead. These programs take the form of a large solar project put up in a community and people become shareholders of that energy production.
- How it works -: You don’t need to do it yourself — it can also be installed on another property. Instead of paying for retail energy, you have the benefits of subscribing to a solar farm and getting clean energy.
- Affordable access -: Community solar programs make it easier for households to access solar energy without bearing the full installation cost.
While community solar programs are still developing in India, they are a promising alternative to personal solar panel installations.
Conclusion
Switching to renewable energy doesn’t have to be expensive. While solar panels are excellent, many people wonder why solar panels are expensive. Fortunately, there are green alternatives that can help you go green without the high cost. Options like solar water heaters, wind energy systems, and biogas systems offer an affordable path toward sustainability.
At Mentor Group, we are committed to offering affordable and efficient renewable energy solutions. Whatever your alternative energy needs or solar needs, our team of experts can help you out.
Please contact us at +91735 100 2123 for more information on renewable energy alternatives.