Environmental benefits of solar energy
Five ways solar energy benefits the environment
IT’S CLEAN ENERGY
Unlike oil and coal, solar doesn’t spew toxic chemicals in to the atmosphere or add to greenhouse gas emissions. It reduces our need to burn fossil fuels, which results in a drop in air pollution and greenhouse gases. Solar also supplements our local hydro-power, which is dependent on an ever-declining supply of freshwater, requires expensive upkeep, and has the tendency to disturb salmon and other wildlife.
IT’S RENEWABLE AND EVERYWHERE
The amount of sunlight that shines in the United States is more than 2,500 times the country’s average daily energy usage. Energy potential is greatest during the summer when energy usage is at its highest. Many utilities allow solar customers to bank the extra energy they produce in the summer and credit it toward their winter energy bills. This is the concept of net metering.
IT REDUCES YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT
Have you thought about your carbon footprint? Going solar reduces the detrimental impact you have on our environment. Even considering the energy expended to initially produce solar panels, you’ll produce far less emissions compared to sticking with traditional sources of energy over the lifetime of your system. You can even use solar panels to charge your electric vehicle, thereby eliminating fuel emissions and protecting yourself against spikes in gasoline prices.
YOU PASS ON A LEGACY OF CLEAN ENERGY
With very few components and no moving parts, solar systems last 30 years or more and require little to no maintenance. This means that even if you sell your home or business, the next owner will become the beneficiary of your investment.
YOU SET AN EXAMPLE FOR OTHERS
We see it all of the time: When one homeowner on the block installs solar, others follow. By installing solar on your house, you get to set an example for others. Even those who install solar panels primarily for the cost-saving benefits often go on to reduce their carbon footprint in other ways.