Solar energy has been around since the 7th century B.C., but harnessing solar power has significantly changed. Back then, people used sunlight to light fires using a magnifying glass. In the modern world, solar energy is captured through solar panels and used to run everything from an entire building’s power to a single vehicle. Solar energy technology has been readily available to citizens since the 1980s and has gained momentum ever since. The government has even offered tax breaks and incentives over the years to try to encourage solar energy usage. Although solar energy only made up about 4% of the energy usage in our country last year, solar energy usage is predicted to rise to 5% this year. Solar energy usage is expected to continue to grow and become a crucial part of our energy production. There are many benefits of solar energy to consider.
Is Solar Energy Renewable or Nonrenewable?
Solar energy is a renewable source of clean energy. Although there are limits on other forms of energy, solar energy truly is abundant and limitless. Hypothetically speaking, there is sufficient sunlight to produce enough energy to power electricity annually for every person on Earth in only an hour. This resource is readily available if we install the solar panels to collect it. If you were wondering, “why is solar energy renewable?”, there is your answer. The supply is virtually limitless.
Does Solar Renewable or Nonrenewable Energy Really Matter?
Our other energy resources are not limitless. In addition to the potential for long–term supply issues, fossil fuels release greenhouse gasses and other pollutants into the air. These pollutants not only impact our world, but they impact our health through poor breathing air. Reducing traditional energy usage is good for the world and our long-term health. Solar energy is the cleanest energy form with little impact on the environment. Although solar energy collection is a zero-emission process and does not release any harmful elements, producing solar panels to collect the energy does impact. Comparatively, this impact is negligible. Each year, manufacturers find greener ways to produce solar panels to minimize the impact even more so. Solar panels are becoming more energy-efficient each year, which means that they capture the sunlight and convert it to clean energy more effectively. Also, solar panels are recyclable, limiting the impact on the environment.
Can Solar Energy Be Cost Efficient?
According to the World Economic Forum, solar energy is more cost-efficient than standard electric methods, such as coal, gas, and other fossil fuels. Solar energy panels last at least twenty years but may last closer to forty with proper care. The initial investment cost will be paid off over time with savings on your utilities. The price of solar panels could go up, but the cost of sunlight cannot go up. Having solar energy protects you from the rising cost of traditional energy sources. Solar energy is a reliable renewable power source that can save you money each year.
If you are interested in powering your home or business with solar energy, reach out to Powerworks Electric. We can help you explore the options for partially or full powering your home or business with solar energy.
