The photovoltaic system and the wind system are undoubtedly the biggest protagonists of the energy transition underway in recent decades, but which of the two systems is more convenient? Both solutions have advantages and disadvantages that we must know, in order to make choices that can satisfy our needs.
For several decades we have been happily witnessing the rise, in the energy sector, of domestic photovoltaic and wind systemsbut all things considered which of the two is more convenient? In both cases it is a question of renewable and sustainable resourcesuseful for reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and, consequently, the impact of the energy sector on the environment.
If you are thinking of opting for one of the two resources, however, you are probably wondering whether photovoltaic or wind power is better.
The answer to this question is not universal for everyone, and It depends on several factors. Although they are sustainable and well-tested solutions for bringing energy into our homes, in fact, neither photovoltaic nor wind energy can be said to be completely free of potential disadvantages.
Let’s see what they are the pros and cons of each of the two solutionsso as to choose the energy source best suited to our needs.
What are the advantages of using wind energy?
Let’s talk first about the advantages and disadvantages of domestic wind energy. We humans have been harnessing the wind for thousands of years, long before the first turbines were invented.
Wind energy also offers greater efficiency than solar energy, and involves a lower production of polluting gases and produces, on average, much more energy than photovoltaic panels.
Yet, despite all these advantages, domestic wind is less widespread in our cities than photovoltaics. But why?
To answer this question, we need to understand what the disadvantages of a wind farm.
Disadvantages of domestic wind energy
The first disadvantage associated with domestic wind energy solutions concerns the dimensions of the plants. It is true that solar panels are often quite large, but wind turbines certainly take up more space. This makes this solution understandably inconvenient, especially in densely populated urban centers.
It is no coincidence that most often the choice is to install wind turbines in commercial or industrial areas, or in open fields and more peripheral areas.
Furthermore, due to their particular structure, wind turbines can be very dangerous for wildlifeespecially for birds, a factor that certainly should not be overlooked.
What are the advantages of photovoltaics?
And now we come to one of the most appreciated solutions by those who aim to achieve independence and energy sustainability: photovoltaic solar. Nowadays, more and more houses are equipped with classic solar-photovoltaic panels, mostly installed on the roofs of the houses, in order to provide energy to the entire building.
One of the points in favor of this solution is certainly the ease of usewhich allows you to reduce the cost of your electricity bill and your impact on the environment, reducing the CO2 emissions normally associated with the use of fossil fuels and pollutants.
In short, the sun, just like the wind, gives us a clean energyready to use and stackable.
Like wind power, photovoltaic energy also enjoys increasingly competitive prices, which makes both solutions suitable for undertaking an energy transition path in our homes as well.
From a purely aesthetic point of view, photovoltaic panels also represent a most convenient solutionas they don’t take up space a lot and do not cause harm to wildlife (although the potential impact of solar on biodiversity should not be ignored).
What is the main disadvantage of solar panels?
To make a choice in line with your needs, you must also consider the disadvantages of this solution.
The main one concerns the cost of photovoltaic. Although, as anticipated, both energy solutions enjoy increasingly more advantageous costs (thanks to the government incentives which aim at a rapid and effective decarbonisation of the energy sector), the initial investment continues to be quite high, often unaffordable for many families.
In both cases, however, the initial costs will be amply amortized over a period of approximately 10 years. This means that both solutions represent a sound long-term investment.
Furthermore, as is clear, photovoltaic generates energy only during the daytime hours, unlike wind power which works day and night. In order to completely replace “traditional” electricity, renewable sources will have to guarantee progressively greater energy coverage, with even more competitive prices.
Which It is convenient between domestic wind and photovoltaic?
But all things considered, when is a wind farm more convenient and when is a photovoltaic plant more convenient?
As almost always happens, this time too There is no one-size-fits-all solutionYou have to weigh the pros and cons and choose based on your needs.
Of course, whoever has lots of space available could benefit more from a domestic wind system, especially if you plan to install it in areas with suitable conditions, particularly exposed to wind and free of buildings and trees.
It goes without saying that the photovoltaic system proves to be the best solution for the urban buildingsespecially in residential areas and in the most populated cities, and in those areas where there is a good sun exposure.
Sources
Source: www.greenstyle.it
