Imagine a world where solar energy is as common as electricity. Bright, sunny days and long, brilliant nights provide the light we need to fuel our days. We sleep under starry skies instead of thick blankets and cozy up to the glow of a wood stove. Sounds like a perfect world, doesn’t it?
Unfortunately, as much as we might wish for this fairy tale to come true, we’re still a long way from achieving abundance through solar power. Why? Our tech and culture have created a world where electricity is valued more than ever before, and the lights stay on.
The truth is, solar energy doesn’t provide the level of security needed to make our modern lives possible. It can’t protect us from floods or drought. Nor can it ensure access to food or water. Without these safeguards, our energy system could still operate under traditional means, albeit on a smaller scale.
For years, the world has been powered by the sun. It’s an amazing source of energy that never gives out and always provides. The problem is that all these advantages come with a hefty price tag. To ensure stable and reliable energy, our technology and culture need to change. We need innovative ways to protect ourselves from natural disasters and man-made threats alike. Otherwise, all the progress we’ve made in solar energy will remain just that – progress.
Climate Change
One of the biggest reasons why solar energy hasn’t taken over as much as we might hope is due to climate change. As our atmosphere and oceans continue to heat up, we’re facing serious challenges in terms of water and food security. In fact, climate change is currently one of the biggest obstacles to making the world a better place. It’s preventing us from moving towards a more sustainable energy system.
The effects of climate change were made glaringly apparent in the 2015 movie, “Mad Max: Fury Road.” In the film, the last remnants of humanity live in a world ravaged by droughts, floods, and storms. The only thing that keeps them alive is the water they can get from trucks. Imagine how different our world could look if we shifted to a sustainable source of energy? How much food could we grow if we didn’t have to worry about water shortages? These are some of the questions we need to ask ourselves as we continue down the road to climate change.
Societal Changes
A second big reason why solar energy has failed to make the mainstream is societal changes. For centuries, lighting was the most common and basic need. Since then, our world has shifted to value efficiency and sustainability. While we’ve made great strides towards sustainable energy and greater efficiency, these developments have mostly benefited developed nations. In other words, the 1%.
In today’s world, energy is seen as a privilege reserved for the wealthy. The technology and cultural expectations that go along with being energy-efficient and eco-friendly don’t always fit comfortably within the global 1%.
Political Changes
A third major reason why solar energy has failed to take off is political changes. In the past, many would have looked at the Catholic Church and labeled it the ultimate authority on all matters regarding our planet. However, this is no longer the case. For centuries, the church has taught that “green” living is not only acceptable, but encouraged. Our current Pope even goes on record as saying “I encourage you to go out and use your own abilities and gifts in creating and enjoying a warm welcome for the holy family in your home.”
These days, the church doesn’t always have the final word. Many green living habits are becoming commonplace, and people are looking for alternatives to traditional energy sources.
It won’t be easy to bring about change, especially when it comes to something as deep-rooted as our culture and technology. Progress will likely be slow and steady, but we must continue striving for a brighter future. Otherwise, we’ll remain firmly planted in the dark ages, powering our lives with candles and lanterns.