When it comes to choosing a green energy source, there are plenty of options, but wind and solar top the list. There has been an increase in the demand for more sustainable and renewable energy alternatives for homes and commercial usage.

In the U.S, electricity production accounts for 25 percent of the total greenhouse gas emissions, only second to transportation which accounts for 29 percent. And about 60 percent of this electricity is produced using fossil fuels. 

Solar and wind energy plays a critical role in reducing our carbon footprint, dependence on fossil fuels, and pollution. There’s no doubt that both are practical and effective alternatives, but the question is which one is better for you.

In addition to providing employment opportunities and cutting down pollution, these energy sources can provide power to the most densely populated and rural regions of the world. 

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about solar energy and wind power.  

Wind Power

Wind power is a form of renewable energy generated when moving air spins the blades on the large wind turbines. Once the blades on the turbines begin spinning, kinetic energy is created, which is later converted into mechanical energy.

The mechanical energy produced is sent to the turbine’s generator to be converted onto electricity. What’s more, wind energy is considered a form of solar energy. This is because the wind is created when the sun heats the earth’s surface.

Advantages

• There’s a natural abundance of wind power, and it costs very little to produce.
• Wind turbines can produce power during the day and night as wind is a constant energy source.
• There’s less pollution as compared to burning fossil fuels.
• A large amount of power is generated on wind farms.
• Wind turbines can be built offshore

 

Disadvantages

• Wind is an unreliable energy source.
• It’s not widely accessible as wind turbines need to be built in areas that experience high winds.
• Usually produced in rural areas, it can be expensive to transport to the urban areas.
• Highly susceptible to damage from lighting and speedy winds
• Wind turbines may cause noise pollution
• Wind turbines are not suitable for densely populated areas. 
• Wind turbines can hurt wildlife 

Solar Energy

As the name suggests, solar energy is created using sunlight. As the sun’s rays reach the solar panels. The photovoltaic cells absorb the energy and convert it into electricity. The direct current electricity is transformed into alternating current electricity. This is then used by the power grid.

What’s more, the excess energy created during the day can be stored.

 

Advantages

• Solar energy will never deplete and is renewable.
• No pollution or greenhouse gases are produced.
• There’s no noise, and they don’t require much space.
• A more reliable output than wind power
• Solar farms can generate power on a larger scale
• Solar panels can be installed on the roof or the ground
• Solar panels require little to no maintenance
• A solar panel system is less visible than wind turbines

Disadvantages

• • Unavailability at night or during the rainy/ cloudy weather.
  • Need to be located directly under the sun for adequate exposure.
  • Requires upfront investment
  • Requires backup battery storage in case of a power outage
  • Need regular inspection and monitoring
  • Ground-mounted solar panels can take up space on the ground, which may result in opportunity cost

Bottom Line: Which is Better?

Both wind power and solar energy have their pros and cons. The option you choose for your home or commercial property depends on your requirements and budget.

While wind turbines can generate a larger amount of electricity than solar panels, they cannot be installed in urban areas or largely populated areas. Plus, they harm wildlife and are way too noticeable.

On the other hand, solar panels can be installed easily n your roof or the ground but require an upfront investment. So, it’s fair to say that solar panels are the recommended choice for suburban and urban areas. On the other hand, wind turbines are a more practical option. 

Even though no energy source comes without its drawbacks, your energy requirement and location play a vital role in which energy source you opt for. 

Best Solar Solutions in Portland, ME

Whether you want to install solar panels or a solar battery, All Solar Energy Solutions is your trusted partner. We are well-versed in all types of solar solutions and systems and have experts ready to help you out.

Reach out to us for more details.