In this modern world striving to lower the dependence on fossil fuels, different renewable energy sources are gaining momentum. Wind and solar are the most talked-about sources. But are they the same? No. There are major differences between solar energy and wind energy. And, this blog will dig deep into these differences.

Difference Between Solar Energy and Wind Energy

Solar energy harnesses sunlight to generate electricity during the day but wind power uses turbines and produces power anytime. Let us understand their working principles and differences in detail.

Solar energy is nothing but energy from the sun that is transformed into electrical or thermal energy. Different technologies are used to harness this energy, the most in-demand being solar panels. These panels have PV cells inside them and when sunlight hits the cells, they convert this radiation into electricity.

Technically, wind is also a form of solar energy caused by a blend of events. When the sun heats the uneven surface of the earth, hot air rises while cool air settles. This causes atmospheric pressure and thus results in the formation of wind (a kinetic form of energy). Wind turbines are employed to capture it. 

When the wind blows over the turbine’s blades, its generator transforms the energy of the rotating blade into mechanical power. We can then use this power to provide electricity to homes, grind grain, and even pump water.

The table below lists all their major differences:

ParameterSolar EnergyWind Energy
Energy SourceSunlight Wind
Conversion MethodPhotovoltaic cells, lenses, mirrors, trackingWind turbines
Installation CostHighComparatively less 
Noise ProductionNo sound Constant rotor blade noise
MaintenanceComparatively lessMore 
CO2 ProductionMore Comparatively less
Energy Output PredictabilityMore predictable and steady Not as steady and predictable 
Space RequirementCan be installed on house or office roofs  Requires vast, barrier-free land 
Electricity GenerationGenerates less compared to wind turbines Generates more compared to solar panels 
Operating HoursOnly during sunlight Even during night
Practicality in RegionsUrban or suburban Rural, far from cities 

Also See: Advantages and Disadvantages of Wave Energy

Pros and Cons of Solar Power

Pros and cons of solar power

Here are the advantages and disadvantages related to solar power:

ProsCons
Reduces fossil fuel reliance.Can’t be produced in cloudy regions or at night.
Is highly cost-effective and leads to significant energy savings.Not all roofs have the correct angle or orientation to collect solar energy.
PV panels are easy to install in homes.Can have a high upfront cost.
The panel’s maintenance needs and costs are low.Panel manufacturing has an environmental impact.
Solar farms can do power generation at massive scale.It’s difficult to relocate PV panels.
Panels require less space and are less noticeable.Have limited recycling and disposal options.

Pros and Cons of Wind Power

Vortex turbine: Solar Panels vs Wind Turbines for Homes

Here are the advantages and disadvantages related to wind power:

Pros Cons
Can eliminate or reduce fossil fuel dependency. Not very cost-effective for residential or small-scale properties. 
Wind turbines allow 24/7 energy captureWind turbines are noisy and unsightly. 
Harness power anywhere the wind blows. Even rural lands and atop buildings. These turbines can interfere with local wildlife as well as ecosystems. 
Turbines can be built offshore.Turbines are prone to damage caused by lightning and wind.
Produce more electricity and emit less pollution. These turbines are usually located in remote areas and make transmission pricey and hectic.

Also, check out the Pros and Cons of Offshore Wind Farms

Output of Wind Vs Solar Energy

Their output varies according to various factors. Wind energy is capable of generating electricity even at night time, making it more flexible in terms of time. On the other hand, solar energy needs sunlight for electricity production. It is fully reliant on daylight hours. 

But compared to wind power, solar panels provide more predictable output. Now, let us take a look at their graphs.

Solar energy electricity capacity graph

solar energy electricity production graph
Pic Credit: IRENA

Wind energy electricity capacity graph

Wind energy electricity production graph
Pic Credit: IRENA

Efficiency of Wind Power Vs Solar Power

difference between solar panels and wind turbines

As stated by EPA, wind turbines are able to convert approximately 20 to 40% of wind into energy. As for residential solar panels, their efficiency rating is around 15 to 20%.

This may make you see wind power as more efficient but remember that it is not as easy to capitalize. On the other hand, solar power is much easier to utilize.

Also Read: How Many Panels in a 4kW Solar System are Required?

Wind Power Vs Solar Power Cost

As per the American Wind Energy Association, a small wind turbine will cost you anywhere around $3,000 to $5,000 for every kilowatt of power capacity. However the cost can fluctuate according to the height of the tower, the size of the system, and your equipment. Mostly, it costs more to buy larger and taller turbines.

In contrast, solar panel costs usually range from  $8,500 to $30,500. You can get an average 6kW solar system for about $12,700. Unlike wind turbines, solar panels don’t come with many moving parts that can undergo more wear and tear. Thus their maintenance cost is also low compared to wind turbines.

This explained the cost of solar panels vs wind turbines for homes. There are a lot of components you’ll need to consider like the tax credits, installation cost, energy output, maintenance, etc. Wind power seems like the more affordable option on paper. However, solar panels are far more accessible and easier to install on residential properties than turbines.

What is Better: Wind or Solar?

Solar power is best for sunlight abundant areas with fewer obstacles. It’s cheaper and can be scaled in larger areas. Wind power although more efficient needs a specific environment and is also less scalable. All-in-all, both are vital in our quest to transition to a cleaner world. To learn more about such energy sources, keep reading our blog posts. 

Recommended: Solar Energy VS Geothermal Energy: Which is Right For You?

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Olivia is committed to green energy and works to help ensure our planet's long-term habitability. She takes part in environmental conservation by recycling and avoiding single-use plastic.

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