Is the earth helped by solar power?

This summer, our planet has been under assault by climate-related events that make the move to renewable energy sources more intense than ever before. Climate scientists have reported on these man-made weather events and what we need to do to change the situation. The solar energy revolution is finally upon us. What is behind the momentum toward solar power? There are multiple forms of renewable energy and global warming has intensified the search for clean energy sources. There are many good reasons for using renewable energy sources. They are cleaner and less polluting than traditional forms of energy, such as coal and gas. Since “renewable” means they are replenished resources, the earth has an essentially infinite supply available. However, these resources can be mismanaged, too, resulting in damage to the environment. The record of lawmakers on this issue is not encouraging. Some of these energy sources are becoming easier to access through deregulation in some states. 

Renewable energy sources

Every kind of energy source has a potential impact on the environment.  Most risks will come from overuse and cutting of corners in an attempt to meet increased needs. Self-regulation and federal and state regulatory agencies try to keep this from happening. However, there is nothing we can do to change the fact that burning fossil fuels causes pollution.

Wind Power

Power generation from wind requires the construction of large towers, which some people oppose because they don’t like the appearance of the windmills. The large turbines and propeller blades are noisy. Some people have complained the vibrations from turbines cause headaches. According to National Geographic Green Living, more than 28,000 birds are killed every year by the turbine blades. However, the energy generated at these sites can be a significant part of a total energy program. Now, slower moving blades are being implemented that are less likely to injure the birds.

Solar Power

Solar panels are typically constructed on existing structures, but new large-scale projects are planned to be built in open areas. This requires land use, which affects habitats and wildlife. The generation of electricity from solar panels is low-risk, but the manufacturing of the solar cells requires the use of various hazardous materials. However, those risks pale in comparison to the pollution damage caused by the burning of fossil fuels.

Geothermal Energy

Most geothermal plants are located near geothermally active spots. Others require deep drilling to access the heated resources. Drilling requires the extensive land use and introduces some risk of shifting earth. Water-cooled plants may release heated water back into rivers and streams, harming wildlife. This must be monitored to prevent species extinction. Due to the current administration’s policies, this must be monitored closely.

Hydroelectric Power

Hydropower requires the damming of rivers. Larget amounts of land are forced underwater. In some cases, wildlife moves out of the area. Fish that once traveled the waterways now are unable to move as freely. Entire populations of fish can be endangered in the hydroelectric process.

Installing a solar energy system has never been easier or cheaper!

Solar power is here to stay, and the sooner you explore how much you can save, the sooner you can enjoy the benefits of residential solar power. Go to HahaSmart.com and try our price checker tool. It tells you how much solar power you need, and how much you can save.

Please visit our solar blog to find out more about the benefits of going solar.