A small flexible solar panel system can be one of the most reliable electricity producers for your workplace or home. Solar power also has the added benefit of being pollution-free, which is why many people are thinking about switching to solar energy.

Solar electric systems (or PV systems) use direct and scattered sunlight to create power for your appliances. The more direct solar energy that reaches your system, the more power you will have for your home. In theory, these systems can work anywhere, but they are better suited to places in the world that get more average sunlight than other locations, such as the United States Southwest.

Even if you do not have the budget for a complete system, you can still utilize solar energy in your daily life to save money and help the environment.

Solar Water Heaters

Most people require hot water every day. Solar energy is a great way to provide hot water without using a gas or electric boiler. Solar water heaters use solar panels to heat water, which is then sent to your storage tank. In addition, American homeowners may be able to use certain federal tax credits for solar water heaters, which can help your finances further.

Outdoor Solar Lights

Energy-saving outdoor solar lights (like solar flood lights or security lights) are handy devices that use solar cells to turn sunlight into electric light. These lights store electricity in special batteries. Then, those batteries power the outdoor lights when it gets dark.

Before choosing an out solar light system, ensure the manufacturer also sells replacement bulbs and batteries, as they may be difficult to source otherwise. In addition, make sure your home’s landscaping allows for outdoor solar lighting. Self-contained lights and smaller solar panels need to be placed in sunny areas of your home. Any shade (from buildings or trees) is detrimental to the solar lights’ performance.

Solar Ovens

Solar ovens are available as pre-assembled units, or you can make your own. They are becoming a popular kitchen appliance for many households. These ovens work like a slow cooker but use angled reflectors to deliver solar energy into a chamber, cooking food at low temperatures over several hours. Keep in mind that food may take up to ten hours to cook, but your energy source is completely free.

Other Small Solar-Powered Appliances

While smaller solar electronic devices may seem less important than major appliances like washer and refrigerators, they can still play an integral role in keeping your energy costs down, especially when compared to the non-solar equivalent. For example, a solar-powered phone charger does not require too much sunlight to work effectively but is still a great way to introduce the advantages of solar energy to your household (they are also good for traveling or going off-grid).

These are just a few ways solar power can help satisfy your needs and make your life easier. If you are eco-conscious or want to cut down your energy bill, any of these suggestions will help in the long term.