Is solar the answer to climate change?

The ongoing debate concerning energy has enormous consequences all over the world. Elections in America in the autumn of 2018 will determine our immediate energy future. The current administration is totally “in the pockets” of coal and oil interests. Nuclear power has also been mentioned as a solution, despite its horrific safety record. Clean energy sources like wind and solar can help us reduce climate change now and solar panels are cheaper than ever before. Our wildlands are threatened by the nation’s addiction to fossil fuels, especially oil and coal. No single clean energy solution has been invented yet. But together, we can develop solutions to create a sustainable energy future and reduce global warming.

What is renewable energy?

The United States heavily relies on filthy fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas for energy.  Whereas fossil fuels will eventually run out or become too expensive to retrieve, renewable energy resources— especially wind and solar energy— are constantly available. Making America more environmentally secure requires adopting cleaner forms of energy to provide our energy. Renewable energy offers wildlands greater protections by providing alternatives to oil and gas drilling and coal mining. Replacing fossil energy with renewable energy can cut carbon emissions and limit the most dangerous effects of climate change.

Where do renewable energy sources originate?

Renewable energy comes from the wind, the sun, and the earth’s geothermal heat. Other forms of energy, like biomass and hydropower, can be considered renewable if they are produced sustainably. Scientific studies make it clear that the United States needs to transform its energy system with cleaner options. We need to make considerable investments in the full range of clean energy possibilities, from renewable energy to efficiency programs. If we do not adopt cleaner technologies, we will further solidify the role of polluting fossil fuels. For example, the Western Grid Group estimates that western states will spend $200 billion in electricity infrastructure over the next 20 years. We have an opportunity to help shape that investment to meet clean energy goals. Will we pollute the earth even more or will we wake up?

What is the role of public lands in renewable energy?

Private and public lands contain substantial wind, solar and geothermal resources. Development is not wise on public lands. Where it does occur on public lands, it needs to be done in a responsible manner.

To do your part, consider installing a solar energy system today!

 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.