Today, more countries than ever before are investing in solar energy. For example, during the first quarter of 2020, the US expanded its solar PV systems by a staggering 3.6 GW. So, why is this alternative source of energy getting so much attention? Here’s some important information to know about solar energy and its growing importance.
Clean and Renewable
One of the main advantages of solar energy is that it generates clean power. As a result, it is one of the most eco-friendly energy solutions that we have today.
The technology that converts the Sun’s light and heat into energy doesn’t leave a carbon footprint. Therefore, it can help cut down greenhouse gas production around the world.
Also, solar energy is renewable since it does not consume Earth’s finite resources. Instead, as you know, it is powered by a free fuel independent from our planet — the Sun.
Unfortunately, we can’t rely on this energy source forever. According to scientists, the Sun will die in 5 billion years. Still, 5 billion years is plenty of time for us to find new renewable energy solutions.
Many Uses
Other important information to know about solar energy is the fact that it doesn’t power only home solar panel systems. Nowadays, there is a wide range of solar-powered devices. And no; we’re not talking about small flashlights or calculators.
Over the past few years, solar power technology has improved greatly. So, solar panels are now much lighter than before, yet they pack more power. As a result, today you can buy the following solar-powered appliances and gadgets:
- Portable cookers
- Power banks
- Backpacks
- Security cameras
- Power generators
Of course, this is only the beginning for solar energy. In the future, you can expect to see everything from solar cars to solar smartphones.
High Return on Investment
If you want your home to be powered by solar panels, the upgrade may cost you over a few thousand dollars. Although that is a big investment, it will pay back four-fold in about a year or so. Best of all, once the panels are in place, they have almost no maintenance costs.
Still, don’t lose heart if you can’t afford to go solar right now. The price of technology in this field is decreasing every year. For instance, in 2009, a standard home solar system in the US was five times more expensive than it is today. So, imagine how cheap solar panels will be in 2025, for example.
In fact, if you live in Boston, solar energy is already more affordable for you than power from the grid. Researchers have found that this is currently the case for 30 million Americans. Even without a government subsidy, solar energy in six US cities is cheaper than electric grid power. Since grid electricity prices tend to rise by 2% every year, that margin is likely to increase.
Wide Availability
The greatest myth about solar energy is that we can only harvest it in sunny locations. In reality, solar panels work even in cold and gloomy weather.
For example, although Sweden gets almost no sunlight during the winter, it’s one of the leading adopters of solar energy. What’s more, the country plans to invest tens of millions of dollars in its solar program. Therefore, no matter where you live, you can make the most of this renewable energy solution.
In Conclusion
As you can see, solar energy is here to stay. It’s only a matter of time before it makes its way to more homes around the world. With the decreasing cost of solar technology, the power revolution may come sooner than we thought.
Atlantic Key Energy can help you embrace the future of electricity now. We have already outlined the most important information to know about solar energy. So, if you wish to go solar, we can offer you a free quotation. Feel free to contact us today, and we will give your roof a day job!
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