By now, it’s a well-known fact that solar energy is one of the cheapest sources of electricity. In fact, according to research, solar panels can save you anywhere between $10,000 and $30,000 over their lifetime. However, while solar energy is an efficient way to reduce electrical bills, it is also one of the most environmentally friendly forms of energy. But if that’s the case, how does solar energy help our world?
Benefits of Solar Energy
When it comes to protecting the environment, solar energy is one of the most versatile and future-proof forms of energy. From reducing air pollution to allowing us to become energy independent, it’s easy to answer the question of how does solar energy help our world.
Reduces Air Pollution
There’s little to no doubt that fossil fuels produce a lot of pollutants such as CO2 and methane. In fact, taking one stroll through a busy industrial center is all it takes to notice how dirty the air actually is. And while smog is bad for the environment, it can also cause a variety of health issues.
Since solar panels create clean energy by not relying on fossil fuels, they don’t contribute to air pollution. Therefore, replacing fossil fuel energy sources with solar can reduce or even stop air pollution.
Helps Fight Climate Change
As previously mentioned, nowadays, air pollution is more common than it ever was. But while our planet used to be able to clean the air, it becomes harder and harder to do so. And as the CO2 count continues to increase, so will the retention of heat from the sun, which will have devastating effects. What are those effects? Some climates will continue to warm while others will get significantly cooler, changing the climate of our planet. As a result, entire species of animals and plants will become extinct.
The only way we can prevent that from happening is by reducing CO2 emissions and improving the air quality. One of the most effective ways to do that is by replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources such as solar power.
Reduces Water Usage
Although fossil fuel power plants make up the majority of electricity generation, there are other, cleaner energy sources. But while hydropower is not as damaging to the environment like fossil fuels, it requires a lot of water. As a result, dams are built in order to control water flow and generate electricity. However, studies show that dams have a significant impact on the local ecosystem.
On the other hand, solar panels create energy without water or a negative impact on the ecosystem. It’s also worth noting that, according to The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, solar systems can drop water usage in 36 states.
Creates Energy Independence
It’s no mystery that fossil fuels are limited sources of energy that will eventually run out. When that happens, we will have to look for new sources of energy, meaning that we could destroy even more ecosystems in our search. And if that wasn’t enough, being dependent on nonrenewable energy sources can make us vulnerable to power shortages when they start depleting.
Luckily, solar energy uses sunlight, which is one of the most accessible and long-lasting forms of energy. Therefore, the sooner we make the transition to renewable energy, the better for the planet and our own species.
The Bottom Line
How does solar energy help our world? — by reducing air pollution, fighting climate change, and saving countless ecosystems. Not only that but solar energy will also help you save money by reducing your electric bills. But if you are still on the fence about going solar, you should definitely consider all the benefits it brings to the environment. And thanks to recent price drops, buying and installing solar panels is much easier and affordable than ever before.
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