We’ve all heard that solar power is good for the planet, but exactly what is it that makes this true?
As the most abundant and renewable, environmentally friendly energy source available for commercial, industrial and residential use today, the sun and its rays give us many reasons to make the switch to solar power, and here are just some of the many things that make solar energy so green:
It gives us cleaner air
By switching to solar, you can significantly reduce your household’s output of CO2 emissions, and those of greenhouse gases. With the production of electricity a large cause of total carbon emissions in the U.S., even a small solar system could lower emissions of toxic gases by as much as 80%, and even more in some instances.
It uses less water
A lot of water is required on average to provide power for households across the U.S., while a home powered by solar, requires precisely no water. Yep, you read it right, zero water! While it is true to say that a small amount of water is required in the manufacture of solar panels, they require no water once constructed, in order to function at their best and produce clean, green energy. This means that once a system is installed, you can look forward to as many as 25 years of water-free energy for your home, which is great news for local industries such as agriculture and drinking systems, who won’t have to compete with you for it.
Helps combat climate change
In the desperate fight against climate change, we all need to do what we can to reduce the negative impact we’re having on the planet, and switching to solar is a significant way to do that. As humans, we’re causing a lot of damage to the environment, some of which may soon be irreversible, and burning fossil fuels that produce harmful emissions, is just one way in which we’re slowly but surely, destroying the world we live in. With shorter winters and melting glaciers proof of the damage our actions are causing, there’s no better time to turn to the sun as our source of energy. In endless supply, sunshine can be harvested and used without causing any harm to the environment, seems like a no-brainer, doesn’t it!
Solar is better for the health of the public
Helping to reduce hazardous waste caused by the production of energy, solar panels contribute towards lessening of respiratory problems, certain cancers and even cardiovascular problems. Each of these are serious, potentially life-threatening issues that are caused or exacerbated by the common pollutants emitted by traditional forms of energy production. For a toxic-free source of energy, you need look no further than the sun!
Wouldn’t you want to breathe cleaner air, use less water and be free of the risks of certain health conditions? Switch to solar and you can start doing exactly that!