A comparison of grid electricity and solar panel systems as a source of energy in the home helps homeowners decide which method is more advantageous in meeting their energy needs, considering energy costs, sustainability, installation costs, maintenance requirements and energy independence. Here is a comprehensive comparison of these two systems:
1. Energy Cost
- Grid Electricity: Grid electricity provides users with continuous energy, but unit prices can increase over time. As consumption increases, the monthly amount payable rises and increases are directly reflected on bills.
- Solar Energy: Solar panel installation costs can be high initially, but in the long run, generating your own energy saves on energy costs by reducing your dependence on the grid. Solar panel systems usually pay for themselves within 6-10 years.
2. Installation Cost
- Grid Electricity: There are generally no installation costs for the use of grid electricity, but there may be some infrastructure and connection fees.
- Solar Energy: The average solar energy system can be installed at a cost of $8,000 – $15,000, including panels, inverters and batteries (optional). Government incentives and tax breaks can help reduce this cost.
3. Energy Independence
- Grid Electricity: In the event of a power outage or price increase, you rely on grid electricity, which affects your energy costs.
- Solar Energy: Solar energy, especially when backed by batteries, provides energy use without being affected by power outages. By producing your own energy, you have an independent energy source.
4. Environmental Impact
- Grid Electricity: Some of the electricity generation in Turkey is based on fossil fuels, which increases carbon emissions and harms the environment.
- Solar Energy: Solar energy offers an environmentally friendly and sustainable energy source with zero carbon emissions. It helps conserve natural resources and contributes to ecological balance.
5. Maintenance Requirements
- Mains Electricity The mains electricity system has no maintenance requirements, requiring technical service only in case of failure.
- Solar Energy: Solar panels should be cleaned regularly, connections and inverters should be checked periodically. In battery systems, batteries need to be replaced at the end of their life. Nevertheless, solar energy systems have low maintenance requirements.
6. Long Term Earnings
- Grid Electricity: Electricity bills are paid monthly and are subject to price increases.
- Solar Energy: The solar panel system recovers the initial investment cost within 6-10 years and saves on electricity costs afterwards.
Cost Comparison of Grid Electricity and Solar Panel Systems
Grid electricity and solar panel system costs by 2024:
- Monthly Electricity Bill: 861 TL per month on average (according to Turkish Statistical Institute data).
- Solar Panel Installation Cost: Average $8,000 – $15,000 (approximately 280,000 TL).
- 10-Year Electricity Bill Cost: Approximately 103.320 TL.
Solar panel installation cost amortizes the system cost by reducing energy costs to zero within 10 years. Therefore, solar panel systems provide advantages by reducing costs in the long term.
Conclusion
Although solar panel systems have a high initial cost, they are a cost-effective, environmentally friendly and energy-independent option in the long run. Grid electricity, on the other hand, provides continuous energy with no initial cost, but increased costs and energy price fluctuations should be considered in the long run.
Note: Considering exchange rates, energy prices and technological developments, the most suitable energy source should be selected according to your personal energy consumption and budget.
