Hydro vs. Wind vs. Solar Power?
No single Renewable Energy source works best all the time in all situations. Hybrid systems often yield the best year-round performance. Wind and micro-hydro usually perform well during stormy periods, while photovoltaics work best in dry summer conditions with long sunny days. Photovoltaics have the benefit of no moving parts, no maintenance, high reliability, and a long life averaging about 25 years or more for solar panels. The recent invention of solar roofing panels and the introduction of major PV incentives in several countries are expected to continue to boost sales and significantly reduce prices over the next decade. Advantages Hydro power: Lowest cost per watt hour Usually a predictable year round power output Often does not require a large battery bank System is quiet and often can be made unobtrusive Typically low maintenance Wind power: Low cost per watt hour in a good location Smaller systems can be low maintenance Predictable power out...