When it comes to city living, a question that is asked more and more frequently is whether or not people should invest in and install solar power and use solar energy. Here are a few of the main advantages and disadvantages of using solar power or sticking with grid power. 
Advantages of Solar Power
There are several advantages to using solar power that are almost unmatched compared to grid power: long-term savings, no reliance on the grid, and enhanced safety during emergencies and blackouts.
1: Long-Term Savings
When you look through the range of solar batteries at VoltX Energy, you will quickly realize that no matter which choice you make, you will save money in the long-term. Once you have installed a solar power system, you will immediately start paying it off in the savings you make by not having to pay for grid power.
2: No Reliance on the Grid
Not having to rely on the grid will not only give you a ton of independence but also protect you from the common problems associated with it. This can range from blackouts to price hikes, and everything in between.
3: Safety During Emergencies
Depending on where you live, blackouts due to natural disasters or extreme weather can be common. When your safety is guaranteed, knowing that you have a way to cook food, charge your phone, etc, is a massively important safety net.
Disadvantages
While there are several benefits to using solar power, there are some drawbacks, especially if you live in a loft. However, these aren’t necessarily problems that can’t be fixed.
1: Solar Panel Installation/Placement
Firstly, you may find it difficult to place solar panels on your roof. The main problem is that if you are surrounded by skyscrapers and taller buildings, your roof may not get enough sun. However, with the help of an expert, you can find ways to angle them effectively to get the most out of the sun your roof does get.
2: Roof Ownership
Roof ownership can be another issue you face. Depending on your loft lease or building rules, you may not be able to install panels solely for yourself. On the other hand, you may find it possible if you commit to shouldering the costs, maintenance, etc, of the panels.
3: Upfront Costs
Installing a solar power system can be expensive. The upfront costs are large, but these expenses are balanced out by the fact that every day you aren’t using grid power, you are saving money.
Advantages of Grid Power
On the other hand, there are some advantages to using grid power, but once again, the disadvantages can be huge.
1: Almost Always Available
Firstly, unless there is a blackout or the grid is damaged, grid power is always available. You don’t have to wait for sunny days, overcast days don’t limit the amount of power you can use, and you don’t have to “save” electricity for any reason other than cost.
2: No Installation Needed
Another major advantage is that no installation is needed. If your loft has plugs, then you have electricity. You don’t need to install a new system to power anything, meaning there are no upfront costs.
3: Capacity
There are no capacity limits when it comes to grid power. Solar batteries can only store a certain amount of power, and while that amount is enough for most households, if you want extra for any reason, it is not possible.
Disadvantages
When considering the disadvantages of grid power, the advantages of solar power become increasingly important and clear.
1: Rising Energy Prices
Electricity has become increasingly expensive over time, and there are plenty of factors that contribute to this. The cost of grid upgrades, fixing damage, etc, all get pushed onto the consumer, meaning things out of your control will cost you more money.
2: No Energy Independence
When you use grid power and only grid power, you are at the mercy of the system working. You don’t have control over pricing, blackouts, the speed at which repairs are done, etc.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best option for a city loft is a combination of both solar and grid power. A solar power system will give you independence from the grid, save you money, and can also be far more reliable when compared to grid power.
While the initial costs are high, the system starts to pay for itself immediately, and depending on the system you get, it will pay itself off in a few years. While that sounds like a long time, it is most certainly worth it.
The reason you should opt for a combination of both is because of the limitations you may have to deal with limitations. As mentioned, something as simple as being unable to install the number of panels you want can reduce the amount of solar power you store.
Therefore, using solar power when the sky is clear, and your roof receives enough sun, is brilliant, but using grid power if you are short on panels or live in an area that is often overcast will balance everything out.