How do solar and wind energy work? As environmental awareness increases, more homeowners are shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like wind and solar.
Both wind and solar are environmentally and financially beneficial.
CanREA’s 2023 report highlights an 11.2% increase in renewable energy, bringing Canada’s wind, solar, and energy storage capacity to 21.9 GW.
If you’re weighing these renewable options, it’s important to understand how each system works.
Here’s a quick guide on the benefits of residential wind versus solar energy, helping you make a well-informed decision.
How does wind energy work compared to solar? Continue reading to find out.
How Residential Solar Panels Work
Photovoltaic cells made of semi-conductive materials like silicon convert sunlight into electricity.
These cells can be mounted on the ground or on building roofs. An average home solar panel measures 65 by 39 inches, produces 150 to 370 watts, and has an efficiency of 15 to 20 percent.
For instance, a 250-watt panel receiving five hours of sunlight daily will generate approximately 1.25 kilowatt hours.
Most residential systems are also grid-tied, allowing for excess energy export unless equipped with a solar battery bank, which provides power during outages or low sunlight.Learn more about the future of solar energy in this blog.
Pros And Cons Of Residential Solar Panels
Pros:
- Sunlight is available year-round in most places.
- Solar panels have no moving parts, enhancing reliability.
- Average warranty is 25 years.
- Require minimal maintenance.
- Operate silently.
- Installation is quick and requires a few cables.
- Excess energy can be sold back to utility companies.
- Continuous improvements in solar technology.
Cons:
- Ineffective in consistently cloudy environments.
- High initial installation costs.
- Some components, like batteries and inverters, are expensive.
- High energy requirement needs significant space.
How Wind Energy Works
Wind energy mostly comes from turbines that stand 60 to 100 feet tall with a rotor diameter of 3 to 23 feet.
These devices are placed 30 feet above any nearby obstacles within 300 feet based on urban zoning height limits.
Wind turbines convert wind into electricity by spinning blades that turn a shaft connected to a generator, and electricity is then distributed via transmission lines. The power produced is either sent to the grid or stored in batteries.
Turbines are about 50% efficient, outperforming solar panels, and work best in flat, open areas with consistent winds.
Pros and Cons of Wind Energy
Pros:
- Wind turbines can harness over half of the passing wind.
- Wind turbines can generate power 24/7.
- Wind turbines work regardless of the direction they face.
Cons:
- Wind is intermittent and strong force is needed to turn turbines.
- Residential wind turbine generators have a maximum energy capacity.
- Building wind turbines is costly and requires specialized maintenance.
- Turbines can harm bird populations—a risk that’s difficult to mitigate.
Is Solar Or Wind Better For Homes?
In Alberta, choosing between solar and wind energy largely depends on specific local conditions and personal energy requirements.
Given that Alberta enjoys the highest sunny days in Canada, with over 312 days of sunshine annually and up to 18 hours of daylight in summer, solar energy emerges as a compelling choice.
The installation cost of solar panels is comparatively lower, around C$15,000 for a typical 5 kW system, making it accessible for residential use.
However, wind energy also has a strong case in Alberta, with the province having a significant existing capacity of about 4,491 MW compared to solar’s 1,138 MW.
The region’s wind speeds, which often reach 50 – 70 km/hr, are highly conducive for wind turbines, requiring winds of only 12-14 km/h to generate electricity.
Despite higher installation costs (C$80,000 to C$110,000 for a 10 kW turbine), wind turbines can be extremely efficient in such conditions.
On top of wind turbines’ high initial cost, they also require frequent (2-3 times per year) and costly maintenance, whereas solar systems require minimal.
However, turbines can harness at least 40% of kinetic energy from wind, while today’s photovoltaic panels harness only 15% to 23% of solar energy from the sun. They also last 10 years longer than solar panels.
Ultimately, the decision may lean towards solar due to lower costs and consistent sunlight availability, but for properties with sufficient space and budget, wind could yield higher energy outputs. For the most reliable and efficient energy system, considering a hybrid setup that incorporates both solar and wind might be the optimal solution in Alberta.
Verdict
| Solar Vs Wind Energy For Homes | ||
| FACTORS | SOLAR PANELS | WIND TURBINES |
| Cost | ✔ | |
| Efficiency | ✔ | |
| Maintenance | ✔ | |
| Lifespan | ✔ | |
| Location Compatibility | ✔ | ✔ |
Knowing how wind energy works and the capabilities of solar panels is crucial for choosing the best alternative energy sources.
Both have unique benefits and can complement each other, but geographic and environmental factors are important to consider.
Solar systems are especially advantageous for homes due to their low maintenance needs, while wind turbines are frequent and costly.
Want to save on energy costs and start a greener journey? Invest in home solar today. Contact Grid Works Energy for a free consultation!
FAQs
What is the difference between wind and solar energy?
Both are from renewable-free energy sources. Wind energy is electricity generated from wind speed, while solar relies on sunlight.
Can solar panels and wind turbines work together?
Yes. Hybrid systems combining solar panels and wind turbines, balance seasonal differences, offering a consistent power supply despite changing weather conditions.
How does wind energy work?
Wind turbines use wind to generate electricity. The wind turns the blades, spinning a rotor connected to a generator, which produces electricity.
