what is the difference in price between solar cells and fossil fuels?
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- Solar Energy: What Is The Cost Of Solar Energy Compared To Natural Gas? (7/7/2011)
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
That’s a very complex question, and somewhat of a moving target. Solar cells are getting cheaper.
However, it’s not really a direct comparison. If I buy a solar cell, it produces a kilowatt hour, continuously — as long as the somewhat less. If I dig a gallon of oil out of the ground, refine it (which takes energy), it’s use up.
I think the best comparison would be to take the expected lifespan of a solar cell and calculate the cost of a kilowatt hour, including the cost of the solar panels, installation, etc., etc. my guess is that the solar panels would be much cheaper.
The cost of a solar cell by itself over time is very cost effective, now comes the big but. you also need to add into the cost comparison all the other equipment needed to bring the energy produced by the cell(s) to the utility. The cell itself is only one of several parts, you need batteries and an inverter to supply usable power. The batteries and inverter are not long life devices and will need service and replacement. These items add to the cost of a solar power system. When the costing is done over time even going out 10 yrs other energy sources are way cheaper.