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​​Solar energy is a clean, renewable, and sustainable energy source with a wide range of applications. While it is used most often in large-scale production, residential solar energy is becoming more and more commonplace.
When you think about solar panels, you probably associate them with large, bulky structures installed on the roofs of houses and other buildings, right? However, not many people know that apartment dwellers are not entirely left out of the solar energy revolution.
It’s possible for renters to take advantage of the benefits of solar panels. Below, you will find the details on how you can use solar panels in your home, regardless of whether or not you own your apartment.
Key Takeaways
- Solar energy is a clean, renewable, and sustainable source of energy with a wide range of applications.
- Apartment dwellers can take advantage of solar panels through several options, such as moving into a building with already installed solar panels, discussing plans with the building manager or landlord, buying plug-in solar panels, joining a community solar project, or switching to a green energy provider.
- Going solar can have a significant impact on an individual’s life, even if living in an apartment. It can reduce the carbon footprint, save money, increase property value, and improve health and well-being.
- The cost of going solar varies depending on the solar option and the location.
- It is vital to choose a solar option that fits both the needs and budget to get the most out of this eco-friendly solution.
Look for a Building With Already Installed Solar Panels
Of course, the easiest way to harness the power of solar energy would be to move into a building that already has solar panels. These are more and more popular, so if you’re looking for a new place to live right now, it might be worth doing some research.
However, don’t be discouraged if you don’t find anything interesting – this is not the only way to go solar as an apartment dweller.
Talk to a Building Manager or Your Landlord
If you really want to go solar and try to implement this in your apartment, one of the first things that you will have to do is discuss your plans with the building manager.
Depending on whether or not you’re renting an apartment from a private owner or leasing it from a real estate company/your landlord directly – there could be different consequences if they decide they don’t want you to install such systems.
On the other hand, you might discover that they are willing to go solar, too. After all, it is a trend that has been growing and developing over the last few years.
Many building managers want to go eco-friendly, especially if they think it will save them money in the long run. As such, you might be the push they need to start the transition.
Buy Plug-in Solar Panels
If you want to install a solar energy system in your apartment but don’t have the space for large structures on your roof or have no access to it, there is a solution.
You can buy plug-in solar panels – much smaller and easier-to-install systems that you simply have to set up in the window, on a balcony, or anywhere else where they will be able to absorb sunlight.
Installing a solar energy system in your apartment is not as complicated as it seems. In fact, the whole process shouldn’t last more than several hours and would be similar to replacing an old appliance with a new one or installing an air conditioning unit.
First, you will need to survey the area and then use a template to calculate how much solar energy is available. After that, it’s just a matter of choosing and installing the right equipment.
Join a Community Solar Project
Another way you can harness the power of solar energy is to invest in a community solar project.
These are usually large-scale eco initiatives meant to go green by using renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power. Usually, they’re owned by local communities, and every household pays into it – meaning everyone can access its benefits at any given time.
The same goes for apartment dwellers who want an alternative sustainable energy source but don’t have space on their roofs or balconies for traditional panels (or simply lack the funds required).
As long as your building participates in one of these projects and you join it – there’s no reason why you won’t be able to benefit from community solar installations like anyone else in the area! You will simply pay your electricity provider or the company handling the project.
Et voila, you just went solar!
Build a Portable Solar Power System
If you’re feeling adventurous and think you can build your own solar power system, it is possible. Portable systems are a great way to access clean energy wherever you go, especially if you live in an apartment and are planning to move.
You can use the panels on balconies or rooftops or take them for camping trips.
They come in different sizes and can be customized depending on what type of technology you need (e.g., charging mobile phones). However, remember that these projects will require some technical skills, so do your research beforehand!
Switch to a Green Energy Provider
Finally, if all of the above-mentioned solutions don’t seem like a good fit for you – there’s one more way to go green, even as an apartment dweller.
You can switch to a green energy provider and purchase environmentally friendly electricity that comes from solar panels or other renewable sources.
This type of energy is already widely used in many parts of the world, so it is worth looking into your local providers in case they offer something similar!
Going Solar – Costs
Small home systems can cost as low as $5,000, while more elaborate solar panels – even up to $40,000. Smaller plug-in solar panels can go for several hundreds of dollars or less. Solar batteries’ prices usually start around $200.
Ultimately, the cost of going solar will vary greatly depending on the solar option and your location.
Why Should You Go Solar?
There are many reasons why going solar is a fantastic idea – and they aren’t limited only to large-scale projects. Solar energy can have a considerable impact on your life, even if you’re living in an apartment.
- Tapping into renewable energy sources reduces your carbon footprint significantly by not relying on non-renewable technologies like fossil fuels or natural gas. This alone will make quite the difference when it comes to preserving our planet’s resources.
- Solar energy is cheaper and more efficient than traditional sources of electricity. In fact, many countries have started offering various incentives for switching to renewable energy – which can save you a lot of money in the long run.
- Installing a solar energy system in your apartment is a great way to increase its value. In the future, when it’s time to sell or rent out the property – much higher prices can be expected due to the fact that you went solar! As such, your landlord or building manager might be more than willing to approve your plans.
- Solar energy is clean, meaning no emissions or pollutants are released into the atmosphere. This makes it great for not just the environment but your health and well-being as well.
The Bottom Line
Solar energy is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and switch to renewable sources of energy.
As an apartment dweller, you have several options available – such as looking for buildings that already use solar panels, talking to your landlord/building manager about installing them, buying plug-in systems, or joining community projects.
Whichever option you choose – make sure it fits your needs and budget to get the most out of this eco-friendly solution!
FAQ
Can apartment dwellers get solar panels?
Yes, apartment dwellers can get solar panels. There are several options available to them, such as looking for buildings that already use solar panels, talking to your landlord/building manager about installing them, buying plug-in systems, or joining community projects.
How much does it cost to install a small home system of solar panels?
The cost of a home system can range from as low as $5,000 up to $40,000 depending on the size and complexity of the system. Solar panels for apartments are usually much cheaper, though the exact price depends on your preferred option and the size of your endeavor.
What are the benefits of using solar panels in apartments?
The benefits of using solar panels in apartments include reducing your carbon footprint, saving money on electricity bills, increasing the value of your apartment, and improving health and well-being.
What is a community solar project?
A community solar project is an eco initiative meant to go green by using renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power.
It usually involves multiple households in a local area pooling their resources and paying into the same system so that each household can access its benefits at any time.
Is it difficult to install solar panels in an apartment?
The installation process is not difficult and usually takes around several hours, depending on the size of the system. If you want to build your own portable solar power system, it may require some technical skills and a little more of your free time.
Can I take my solar panels with me if I move?
That depends on your chosen solar option. Portable solar power systems are a great way to have access to clean energy wherever you go and can be taken with you for camping trips or when moving. Plug-ins may be a little more challenging to move, but it can be done in some cases.
What is the best solar option for apartment dwellers?
The best solar option for an apartment dweller depends on their needs and budget. It is essential to research all available options before deciding so that you get the most out of your investment.
Is it worth going solar in an apartment?
Yes, absolutely. Going solar can significantly impact an individual’s life, even when living in an apartment. While the difference in energy bills may not be significant, it can still reduce the carbon footprint, improve property value, and potentially increase health and well-being.
