Solar is the energy solution

The burning of fossil fuels remains one of the world's biggest problems. Even though fossil fuels are only going to endure another 50 years, climate scientists warn that we need to develop alternative energy sources promptly to avert the worst of climate change. Global pollution has reached a truly significant state and the dangerous consequences of climate change are provoking the increased momentum toward renewable energy sources. Switching to solar power on a massive scale would have a profound positive environmental impact.  Solar development isn’t just good for the natural environment, but the community in general as well.  Installing even one solar power system can make a calculable improvement in every aspect of our environment and it can help to inspire others to install solar themselves. That's the key to realizing the climate goals set by several governments.

Benefits of solar energy to health and the environment

A recent study concluded that adopting solar energy on a large scale would considerably reduce emissions of nitrous oxides and sulfur dioxide. Exposure to these two toxic substances is particularly hazardous to human health, and in many cases, can be fatal. The list of human and animal health problems associated with prolonged exposure is truly disturbing. Associated diseases cover everything from chronic bronchitis to lung damage, from fertility problems to genetic mutations. The study concluded that the use of solar power would result in fewer cases of pollution-related infirmities, as well as decrease the cases of respiratory and cardiovascular issues.  Moreover, that reduction in sickness would mean fewer lost workdays and lower healthcare costs.  What the scientific report failed to consider was that often the working poor is disproportionately exposed to these poisonous substances. Their homes are often located closest to the oil refineries and manufacturing plants that produce them, and the poor usually lack the financial resources to move.

Benefits to the financial landscape from solar

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, in 2016, the average American home consumed 10,766-kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year.  Louisiana residents ranked highest in consumption, at 14,881 kWh, while Hawaii had the best record, with only 6,061 per household.  The costs of energy also vary, by region, with New England paying the highest prices for natural gas and electricity as well as having the biggest percentage rise in overall cost.

Water prices are also rising steadily as global warming reduces the supply of water.  Those price hikes will rise even more in the future unless we can develop a cost-effective solar desalination device.  Solar electricity uses up to 89% less water than coal-powered electricity, which helps keep water prices more stable. Widespread adoption of solar energy would also help reduce price fluctuations.

Benefits to the environment and health

Solar power produces up to 97% less acid rain than coal and oil, and up to 98% less marine eutrophication, which drains the water of oxygen. In addition, solar power systems also use 80% less land. Of course, all forms of energy generation have some impact on the natural environment but renewable energy sources are always dramatically safer than fossil fuel sources. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, the impact of solar power is minimal compared to that of fossil fuel power.

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. Since the price of solar panels is still reasonable, especially considering incentives and rebates, now is an outstanding time to go solar.

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

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