Should I Worry About Generating Too Much Solar?

Because of an incident in early summer where the California Independent System Operator had to shut down power plants due to too much energy production, it left many people asking if they should worry about producing too much energy, how much energy is too much, and is solar really necessary if it’s going to cause overproduction? This, unfortunately, caused the “too much” myth being spread, when really, that isn’t really a thing, and Californians should be focusing on producing energy now more than ever before.

Is There Such Thing as “Too Much” of a Good Thing?

The definition of “too much” when it comes to solar is an oversupply of solar based on the electrical grid’s ability to store the power, use the power from the grid, or send the power somewhere else. This number is dependent on the demand and storage capabilities of a particular system and is therefore subjective. Some organizations are concerned about the high levels of solar being produced by homeowners and business owners. This is not an environmental concern. It is a concern that too much solar being produced may drop the profits of power plant operations. Additionally, continued increases in the supply of all renewable sources will place pressure on wholesale energy prices, squeezing profits from energy generators.

Now that you know energy overproduction is a myth, here’s why you should make the switch.

Solar = Freedom

While solar energy consumers are often bombarded with the idea of green energy, a new idea should be pushed when it comes to solar energy: the cost savings that come with going solar. As utility bills keep going up and up, it’s time for solar to push its way to center stage and let everyone know how much they’ll save by switching to solar.

Not only will going solar increase your savings, but it will also allow you to plan for your future. Knowing exactly how much you’ll pay for solar each month is a huge advantage that traditional energy doesn’t have. It will allow you to budget for your future and reduce the stress of ever-rising utility bills.

Clean, Renewable Energy is the Future

As stated above, there is also, of course, the huge need for clean, renewable energy. Saving your wallet is definitely important, but so is saving the planet. Keeping your extra change won’t matter much if climate change starts destroying our planet in irreversible ways. By going green, you are joining the forces of the many people who are taking the pledge to be on the path to a green, renewable future. And as the resources of the planet start running out, you’re going to be happier you switched more than ever, as this will, in turn, cause prices of utilities to continue to rise. Good for the planet, good for your wallet, good in every way.

Solar in the Future

Like all movements of change, solar energy, solar energy storage, and solar legislation is not perfected.  However, research and advocacy groups are working diligently to ensure that misnomers such as “too much solar” energy are put to bed. They are also working to educate the public on why increased dependence and access to clean energy sources, such as solar, is important. One such group to follow in California is the Solar Rights Alliance, a non-profit focused on ensuring consumer solar rights.

Other long-term solutions include better grid-scale storage, programs to change how energy is priced within Time-of-Use schedules, and better legislation.

However, what cannot be denied is that solar energy is a vital piece to the energy solutions necessary for California residents.  

Want to learn more about integrating solar into your lifestyle? Check out the HahaSmart blog!

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