When you are looking to make a big decision in your life it feels good to know all aspects of that decision. To really understand the best of it as well as the worst of it. That way you can move forward in a conscious way being fully aware. If you are considering a solar power house, then this list is a great starting point to get clear about the big picture.

Let's take a look at the cons first before we move on to the positive side of things.

MONEY - No matter what your needs there is an initial outlay of capital to get started in solar energy for your home. You may be able to obtain financing which would convert this outlay to an extended period of time, but either way there is an investment and it is unavoidable. Your initial outlay will take some time to recoup and the real pay off starts to come anywhere from 5 to 20 years later depending on your system.

PHYSICAL SET UP - We are used to having electricity come to the sockets in our home with nothing more to consider. If you go solar you will need up to a 1000 square feet of space to mount panels and your roof may or may not face the right direction. You will also need a storage place for your batteries, converter and equipment that allows the system to run.

RISK - Solar can pose a bit of a risk. Like electrical work it needs to be done by a professional in order for you to be insured against a short in a wire or the like. If you want to use a DIY solar system option be sure to check into the insurance consequences of your choice.

Okay enough of the bad news, it is time for the pros.

MONEY - Hey wait, wasn't that a con? Yes it was as far as the initial outlay of money. After that though there are potential savings underway. You will likely use power indefinitely so this means you will also save indefinitely too. There is also the possibility of putting power back into the power grid which may even earn you money!

ENVIRONMENT - There is a long list to include here. Solar energy is an endlessly renewable resource. It produces zero emissions in its creation. It doesn't contribute to global warming in anyway. Panels last up to 25 years and the batteries from 10-11 years before replacement, making very little waste overall. Even then there are recycling options. You can also support green companies when you go solar helping them gain ground in our economy overall.

INDEPENDENCE - For some this is significant and others not as much. It feels really good to know that you are responsible for your own power and that you have control over it bar the sun. It feels a little overwhelming at times to get bills where you may not even know the prices of he power you bought until the bill comes. Your independence away from systems that may or may not have your best interest in mind can feel very good.

There is no shame in considering the use of one of our best resources around to supply your home with energy. In fact it is something to be proud of as times change and so do the primary means that we use to operate.