As climate change continues to threaten our very existence, solar energy can play a pivotal role in protecting our environment. Our dependency on fossil fuels is unsustainable. When fossil fuels are burned, they release dangerous pollutants that raise the Earth’s surface temperatures, causing several environmental issues. 2023 is going down in history as the “hottest year on record.” Sadly, this record is at risk of being broken in 2024. Climate change and extreme weather can also cause a spike in the price of raw materials, increasing energy costs. Shifting to solar energy is environmentally friendly, reduces the use of fossil fuels, and can save solar subscribers 10% on their utility bills. Here are five wonderful environmental benefits of going solar:
100% Renewable
Sunlight is unlimited. As long as sunlight can reach solar arrays, it can be converted into 100% clean, renewable energy. Several land requirements are evaluated when solar farms are designed to provide optimal energy output. For instance, most community solar projects need a minimum of ten acres of dry, flat land. It also needs to be clear of major obstructions, such as tall buildings. In contrast, fossil fuels like oil, coal, and natural gas are in limited supply. As energy demands increase, fossil fuels will continue diminishing until they are completely depleted.
Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions
When fossil fuels are used to create energy, they emit dangerous amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), have a major impact on climate change. As they accumulate in the atmosphere, greenhouse gases cause the Earth’s surface temperature to rise. The effects can be catastrophic. Glaciers continue to melt at an alarming rate, which raises sea levels. Coastal cities and towns are threatened with severe flooding. Extreme weather events, such as forest fires, hurricanes, and excessive heat waves, become more frequent. Several species of animals face uncertain futures as they struggle to adapt to higher temperatures. Of course, the ripple effect of climate change is far-reaching.
Solar energy creates zero-pollution, which means no greenhouse gases are emitted. By investing in solar energy, we fight climate change and reduce the strain placed on our environment by dangerous fossil fuels.
Reduces Harmful Extraction
Before fossil fuels can even be utilized to create usable energy, fossil fuel energy companies need to use several resources to free them from the Earth. Whether digging for coal in a coal mine or gathering oil from deep under the Earth’s surface, the extraction process of fossil fuels can pollute the soil, air, and water. Fossil fuels are toxic. Humans and other life forms can be exposed to severe health risks when they contaminate our environment.
With solar energy, there is no need to dig in the earth, transport dangerous, toxic elements, or destroy natural habitats where fossil fuels are located. Solar arrays simply face the sun and receive abundant sunlight to create clean, renewable energy.
Renewable Energy for Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) are on the rise. As we continue to embrace sustainable, renewable energy like solar, our dependency on fossil fuels will diminish. Solar farms can supply electricity to residences, businesses, and charging stations. EVs offset the harmful CO2 emissions generated by traditional gas and diesel-powered vehicles.
Reduces Water Pollution
Just about all manufacturing processes require some amount of water. The production of energy is no different. Traditional energy sources like natural gas, oil, coal, hydroelectric facilities, and even nuclear power plants need very large amounts of water for their processes. Areas like the southwest that experience draught regularly can strain local ecosystems to keep up with demand. That means there’s less water available for several other essential functions, such as agriculture and drinking systems. By comparison, solar power requires only a fraction of the water needed to support fossil-fuel-driven energy sources. Whether during extraction, transportation, or use, fossil fuels can contaminate water supplies and potentially destroy ecosystems. Even when strict caution is observed, accidents can happen. In contrast, solar energy doesn’t pose the same hazards as their fossil fuel counterparts.
US Light Energy Solar Solutions
With over thirty years of experience in the solar industry, US Light Energy specializes in developing solar solutions. From community solar to commercial solar, our solar solutions can help you reduce your carbon footprint, generate clean, renewable energy, and save on electric bills. We understand that each business is unique and requires an equally unique solar solution. Having installed over 185 commercial and industrial PV systems between New York and Massachusetts, US Light has the expertise to implement a customized solar solution that supports your energy needs. Our community solar solutions allow anyone with a utility bill to subscribe to solar energy without installing any solar equipment on site. With US Light Energy, there are no long-term contracts to sign. Subscribers can enjoy a guaranteed 10% reduction in their utility bills. With the generation of solar power, everyone wins! Contact us today to learn how we can help you implement a solar solution. US Light Energy is leading the charge for a new generation.