The real question about solar energy might better be stated as “How could solar energy not help the world?”
Did you know that one kerosene lamp, a common piece of lighting equipment in rural areas and developing countries, creates about one ton of carbon emissions in a period of about seven years? That may not sound too bad… until you consider there are approximately 2.5 billion people globally who have no access to any power source of any kind, therefore relying on kerosene and other fossil fuels or animal dung, for light and heat. Now, does the carbon emission impact begin to make sense?
In the United States, the average citizen produces 27 tons (54,000 pounds) of CO2/equivalent in a year by using fossil fuels according to statistics from Nature Conservancy. I think that’s considered a very large environmental impact.
Solar energy can help the world…not only survive…but thrive…by serving basic needs while reducing environmental pollution. Solar energy for light, heat, and water is not only feasible, but vital for global survival and growth.
While many third world countries have abundant solar energy potential, many are unaware that it can be easily used as a power source. And many who are aware have felt it too expensive, or unavailable, for them to consider using. At the same time, third world countries are the biggest market for solar energy systems, and other renewable energy products.
The sun provides an unlimited supply of renewable clean energy. Whatever we do to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, while increasing our reliance on solar energy, makes a difference for our world. Every watt of power generated from fossil fuel increases the world’s pollution. Every watt of power generated from the sun is pollution-free.
Once you’ve paid for the initial cost of components and installation, using solar energy is free. Solar energy is silent, which means a reduction in noise pollution as well and there’s no maintenance.
While the average home is currently emitting about 18 tons of greenhouse gas into the environment every year using fossil fuels…solar energy emits no pollution.
Plus, one of the biggest advantages from a global perspective is the ability of solar energy to create self-sufficient home systems in those rural areas where conventional power distribution isn’t economically feasible.
An organization called SELF, or Solar Energy Light Fund, has been prominent in bringing solar energy to the developing world. It describes itself as a “cutting edge, independent, not-for-profit organization that designs and implements sustainable energy solutions for enhancements in health, education, agriculture and economic growth in the developing world.”
SELF has partnered with government and non-governmental organizations in more than 15 developing countries to bring solar electrification to villages and homes without existing resources. Their projects have helped create solar electrical systems for schools, water systems, irrigation, health clinics…and income-generating work in poverty-stricken areas.
Today’s solar panels are predicted to have an average life of about 25 years, with a 10-year payback period. The costs are expected to decrease significantly with thin film technologies, which will also increase innovative use and flexibility of solar panels. This is particularly true for thin film batteries, where the market is exploding.
Solar energy is becoming more and more popular throughout the world. This is a technology that works. As momentum builds, more investments are being made in solar energy. As it is adopted more widely, mass production, and more funding that will allow the creation of new technological efficiencies, will make solar energy more economical. The price of gasoline and other fossil fuels, constantly escalating, will drive more individuals, companies and countries, to make solar energy their power source for homes, vehicles, and other energy needs.
Solar energy works…and it’s here to stay. Let’s face it, the faster solar energy replaces fossil fuel as a primary source of energy, the better off the world will be.
Learn more about solar power benefits and other solar energy topics by stopping by Timothy Peters’s site: www.HomeSolarPowerExplained.com/
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