Solar vs Wind – Which is the Best Energy Solution for You?
At Infinite Energy we’re often asked which is better – solar vs wind power?
Although both provide a reliable source of clean and renewable energy, their generation methods – as well as their returns on investment - are very different. So let’s take a closer look at how they work, as well as which one is best for you.
Energy Sources – Solar Panels vs Wind Turbines
Let’s start with the obvious – as their names suggest, wind turbines source their power from the wind, while solar PV systems gather their energy from the sun.
When it comes to generating electricity - and when compared to solar power systems - wind turbine systems are less reliable.
That’s because they’re completely reliant on the flow of the wind. And if the wind doesn’t blow, is turbulent or not strong enough, the turbine doesn’t work.
Small wind turbines also come with a specific set of disadvantages. Besides not being as efficient as the large turbines used by power companies, they also need to be placed in a very specific location.
For the turbine to generate a reasonable amount of power, it must be situated in an area receiving above average amounts of wind. The air flow also needs to be smooth as smaller turbines are easily affected by turbulence.
In areas near busy roads, near trees or in built up areas the wind is constantly changing direction, which means the turbine is constantly changing direction too. This forces the turbine to chase the wind, rather than extract power from it.
Although solar panels are completely reliant on the sun, sunlight is more readily available in usable quantities in Australia than wind.
Furthermore, a solar panel will continue to work - regardless of how much sunlight it receives - as long as the sun is out and hitting the panels.
Solar vs Wind - Cost
Although the initial investment costs of a solar power system are similar to that of a wind turbine, the cost savings generated from solar far outstrip those provided by wind power. You’ll have paid off your solar power system within two to five years, whereas with a wind turbine, the pay off period is more likely to be double that.
With few moving parts, maintenance costs for solar are low.
And in the unlikely event a problem does occur, rest assured you’re fully protected. All Infinite Energy solar power systems are warranty supported for five years, and most solar power system components also come with a 25 warranty, giving you added peace of mind.
Wind turbines are larger in scale and require significant maintenance.
And thanks to lots of moving parts, they’re more likely to fail. Extreme weather conditions may cause blades to break down, and can cost a lot to repair.
Solar vs Wind - Efficiency and effectiveness
Solar panels are highly efficient, having been developed to operate in all conditions and seasons. So as long as there is light, they’ll produce power.
They’ve also been designed to withstand extreme conditions, are built to last and can increase the value of your home or business - always good news when it’s time to sell up and move on.
As previously mentioned, wind turbines are highly subject to the whims of the weather.
If there’s little, the wrong type, or no wind, they don’t operate. And if the wind’s too strong, they can break down then too. Location is extremely important when it comes to wind generated power and as a result, it’s an impractical method of generating electricity on a mass scale.
Solar vs Wind - Ease of use and accessibility
As they’re installed on your roof, solar panels have the edge on wind turbines when it comes to ease of use and accessibility.
Easily installed and accessed, solar panels operate automatically without any need for action from you. This is in direct contrast to wind turbines which require a large area for installation and given their size, are difficult to access.
Wind turbines also require steel guy ropes. This not only adds to the installation difficulty and cost, but also causes reverberations.
Solar – the practical choice
When it comes to residential power systems, solar PV systems clearly have the edge over wind turbines.
Easy to install and repair, requiring low maintenance and designed to operate in a variety of conditions, solar PV systems are clean, practical and accessible.
Leading the way as the most affordable and viable alternative to fossil fuels, they’ll continue to generate power as long as the sun continues to shine. And thanks to the development of solar batteries, they’ll soon be able to store unused power at a viable price, ensuring absolutely nothing goes to waste.
If you’re interested in exploring solar power for your home or business, give us a call. We can advise on the best system for your needs, and stock a range of the world’s most trusted solar brands.
