Most of us are aware of the growing threat of climate change. The effects of climate change are already being felt, and it’s being said that the planet may not be able to sustain human life as we know it.
This is why it’s essential that we take steps to reduce our carbon footprint and be more energy independent. One significant way we can do this is by transitioning to solar energy. Not only does it represent a way forward in terms of combating climate change, but it also offers a range of benefits to those who choose to switch.
Positive Impacts Of Going Solar
The global community is waking up to the importance of solar energy. In 2018, it was reported that there were over 400 new solar projects that were either under construction or in advanced planning across the world. This follows a 25% rise in new solar projects in the previous year, and a 140% rise since the beginning of the decade. Clearly, the world is recognizing the importance of this sustainable energy source.
There are a number of positive impacts that come with going solar. To begin with, you won’t need to worry about the fluctuating price of fossil fuels (e.g. oil, gas, and coal). These prices are subject to volatile market conditions, which can make it difficult to budget and plan energy purchases.
In addition, you won’t have to worry about carbon monoxide poisoning, which is a common effect of burning fossil fuels. These monoxides, combined with the nitrogen oxides, form the dangerous compound nitric oxide (NOx), which is known to cause severe health issues. When produced in high amounts, this compound has been known to contribute to respiratory ailments and cancer. You will also avoid the risk of fire and explosions, as there is no risk of fuel buildup with solar energy. In the event of an accident, there is also no risk of damage to property.
Reduced Energy Consumption
While the global supply of energy is growing, so is our energy consumption. According to the U.S. government’s Energy Information Administration, total energy consumption rose by 2.3% year-on-year in the United States in 2018.
This trend is being seen across the globe, with the International Energy Agency forecasting that global energy consumption will need to increase by 1.7% year-on-year in 2030 to meet growing demand. Going solar will help to reduce your energy consumption, as you won’t need to run any appliances (e.g. air-conditioning units, refrigerators, and freezers) that consume energy.
The American Institute of Stress states that a significant cause of stress is worrying about everyday expenses. Going solar will remove much of this financial worry as you won’t need to pay for energy every month. In fact, you may soon realize that you are better off paying less for your energy than you would for your daily electricity usage.
Cutting Back On Dependency
One of the major advantages of going solar is that it reduces your dependency on fossil fuels. These fuels will still be used in remote or isolated areas, but it will be for critical services such as medical equipment or communications technology.
The trend of powering down to reduce energy dependency continues, and more and more people are choosing to live a lighter, less carbon-intensive life. Going solar reduces your need for fossil fuels, making it easier to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle and become more eco-friendly. If you choose to go solar, you will reduce your impact on the environment and allow the Earth to return to “normal” conditions.
Eco-Friendly
Going solar is eco-friendly. Not only does it remove the need for you to purchase fuels that contribute to climate change, but it also reduces your reliance on electricity, which is generated from fossil fuels. In general, the less energy you consume, the less you will contribute to climate change.
The production of solar energy does not harm the environment. In fact, it can be considered a renewable energy source. When the Sun shines, solar panels convert the energy into electrical energy that is stored in batteries. These are then drawn upon when needed, preventing the release of carbon into the atmosphere. When solar energy is produced in sufficient quantities, it can even be considered a potentially viable alternative to fossil fuels, eliminating the need to burn them and the harmful compounds they release into the atmosphere.
Due to the positive impacts of going solar, as well as the growing number of people choosing to switch, more and more businesses and homeowners are installing solar panels. It would be wise to consider investing in this renewable energy source. Not only will it help to reduce your carbon footprint, but it could also prove to be economically viable.