Since April 22, 1970, Earth Day has celebrated our planet’s natural resources and raised awareness of eco-friendly habits. After a California oil spill, marches, rallies, and educational programs led to the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Earth Day is now a worldwide celebration marked by a host of environmentally friendly activities from planting trees to advocating for clean, renewable energy such as solar power. This Earth Day is the perfect time to become aware of the benefits of solar energy and why you should consider it for residential use.
Renewable and Inexhaustible
While it’s true that scientists say our planet’s life-giving star will someday come to an end, it will last for 4-5 billion years. On a more pertinent time scale, the sun is a source of energy that will remain the same day after day for billions of years into the future. That means it’s renewable and inexhaustible. It’s clean, reduces our carbon footprint, and avoids the environmental damage of mining or drilling. And unlike the electricity generated by steam energy, it uses little to no water.
Can Be Used Anywhere on the Planet
Every place on the planet receives sunlight, and solar energy can be generated in all climates. It’s a source of energy that can be implemented in any place on the earth, even remote, isolated places. It may be temporarily interrupted by a series of cloudy days but is not affected by the cold.
Massive amounts of electricity can be generated in huge solar farms near the Equator and other places that get the highest levels of sunlight.
Compatible With Photovoltaics
Sunlight is composed of particles of energy called photons. A photovoltaic (PV) cell is a device that can turn sunlight into energy. The greatest amount of energy from photovoltaics is produced at midday. Still, with large and efficient storage systems, the demand for energy beyond what the sun provides can be better managed. When solar energy is generated by photovoltaic technology, it can be sent precisely to the electricity grid.
Creates Jobs and Wealth
Solar energy creates the most green job opportunities for builders, installers, and technicians working at power plants. A recent study suggests that by 2050, 22 million jobs worldwide will be available in the photovoltaic category. It stimulates the economy by giving families, businesses, and entire nations opportunities for profitable investments.
Solar Energy Is Quiet
Compared to fossil fuel systems and other renewables such as wind and hydropower, the process of producing solar energy is remarkably quiet. Only a minimal amount of noise is produced by parts needed for cooling. The sun’s rays and components used to collect energy work silently, making solar energy suitable anywhere noise needs to be reduced.
Requires Minimal Maintenance
Photovoltaic panels do become less efficient over time, but the lifespan is long at 20-25 years. With no moving parts to wear out, all that’s needed is an occasional cleaning.
Solar Panels Are Practical
Solar panels are easy to install, remove, or replace making them a practical investment. They are easy to take apart and can be recycled, reused, or reclaimed, another positive impact on the environment.
Solar panels are also very versatile since panels are available that can be combined in different ways for everything from small residential use to large-scale farms.
Solar Energy Has a Bright Future
Firmly established in the 21st century, photovoltaic technology is mature and reliable. Unlike during the latter part of the 20th century, it’s no longer in the experimental stage. The performance of solar cells is constantly improving, and figures that once seemed unattainable (such as efficiency above 20%) are now easily within reach. Increased efficiency and durability along with lower prices paint a rosy future.
Saves Money on Utility Bills
These days, everyone is concerned about the high cost of electricity. Homeowners who install a solar energy system can rely less on the grid and save money on utility bills. You don’t even have to install an entire solar system to reap the benefits. Simply using solar lights can help you save money.
Improves a Home’s Value
Homebuyers today are looking for homes that are more energy efficient. In addition to saving money, they can feel good about reducing their carbon footprint. Installing solar panels will increase the value of your home by about $15,000.
Go green this Earth Day and save money with solar panels installed by the experts at Honey's Air & Solar in Modesto, CA. We can also take care of your heating and AC needs as well as offer solutions for improved air quality.
