The end of fossil fuels and the onset of solar

The world is experiencing distressing consequences of relying on the burning of fossil fuels for our energy needs. Fossil fuels are a variety of negative, polluting, environmentally damaging energy sources. Presently, fossil fuels are the most extensively used energy source in the world. It is used to generate electrical energy but it is also used to generate mechanical energy (cars, heat engines, etc.). Fossil fuels are almost depleted and climate experts are urging us to develop cleaner energy sources before it's too late.

The definition of fossil fuels

Fossil fuels are fuels that come from a process of decomposition of organic matter. Fossil fuels originate from a transformational process of millions of years of plants and vegetables (causes of oil, coal and natural gas). These are deemed primary energy sources since they can be obtained directly from the earth without excessive processing.

Formation of fossil fuels

Fossil fuels are formed by a process of partial decomposition of organic matter. It is a transformation process of millions of years due to the pressure and temperature that several layers of sediment exert on organic matter. This began organically due to a fossilization process. Organic matter has not been degraded by microorganisms (which cannot live) but continues in the form of more complex, solid organic molecules ( coal), liquid (oil) or gas (natural gas). The energy of these molecules is what is discharged when using them as fuel. This process of millions of years is the one that converts fossil fuels into a non-renewable source of energy since it is depleted much faster than it is generated.

Importance of fossil fuels in today's world

Scientists discovered that fossil fuels have a high calorific value that makes them a major source of energy to generate thermal power. The use of fossil fuels has allowed economic and demographic growth associated with the industrial revolution of the 19th century. At present they are fundamental for our economy. In 2007, the combustion of coal, oil and natural gas accounted for 86.4% of the world's energy. Transitioning to solar and wind power will dramatically reduce the earth’s pollution.

The dire consequences of the use of fossil fuels

Fossil fuels are extremely unpopular with environmental groups. Its combustion generates a lot of gases. These gases become one of the main sources of atmospheric pollution because they contribute to enhancing the greenhouse effect and, consequently, to global warming.

Today, the use of fossil fuels is a problem of sustainability, both for environmental and business reasons (the planet's fossil fuel resources are limited and will one day be exhausted).

Natural gas can be used directly without having to previously transform it into electricity. This feature allows it to have a much higher efficiency of 91.2%. Its storage is cheaper and simpler than coal and petroleum products.

Now that climate scientists are reaffirming their previous projections, we can expect another solar boom to come around very shortly. Due to the low cost of solar panels and some technological innovations, there has never been a better time to install a solar energy system! Imagine being able to generate your own power and have the peace of mind of knowing you are less vulnerable to power outages from the power grid. You also will have the peace of mind of knowing you are not contributing to global warming by burning fossil fuels for home use. There are so many reasons to join the solar revolution! What will yours be?

For more information relating to going solar, don't forget to visit our solar blog section for more handy guides and articles.

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