Solar power’s environmental benefits

Fossil fuels are the biggest threat to our environment. The earth has been under assault by toxic pollutants for many years. Countless deaths and illnesses have been caused by mankind’s greed for more energy.  That provides motivation to make the transition to renewable energy sources more intense than ever before. Climate scientists have proclaimed the danger of these man-made weather events and what man needs to do to change the situation. The solar energy revolution is going on right now. What are the reasons for the momentum toward solar power? There are many forms of renewable energy and global warming has escalated the search for clean energy sources. There are several good purposes for using renewable energy sources. They are cleaner and less polluting than conventional types of energy, such as coal and gas. Since “renewable” means they have replenished resources, the planet has an infinite supply available. However, these resources can be mismanaged, too, resulting in damage to the ecosystem. The record of lawmakers on this issue is not inspiring. Some of these energy sources are becoming easier to access through deregulation in some localities.

Renewable energy sources

Every kind of energy source has an impact on the environment.  These risks will come from overuse and cutting of corners in an effort 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 cause pollution.

Wind Power

Power generation from wind requires the construction of large towers, which some people oppose because they don’t like the look of the windmills. The huge turbines and propeller blades are noisy. Some people have reported the vibrations from turbines cause headaches. According to reports, 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 comprehensive energy program. Now, slower moving blades are being implemented that are less likely to harm birds.

Large-scale solar projects are coming

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

Geothermal Energy

Most geothermal plants are located near geothermally active areas. Others require deep drilling to reach the heated resources. Drilling requires the extensive land use and introduces some risk of slipping earth. Water-cooled plants may release heated water back into rivers and streams, injuring wildlife. This must be monitored very closely to prevent species extinction.

Hydroelectric Power

Hydropower requires the damming of rivers. The largest amounts of land are forced underwater. In some cases, wildlife leaves the area. Fish that once traveled the waterways now are less able to move as freely. Entire populations of fish can be endangered by 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. Now that solar panels are falling in price, there are more reasons than ever before to install a solar energy system. For those who want to reduce their carbon footprint, investing in solar is the best investment possible today.

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

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