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Fossil fuels account for 80 percent of the world’s energy consumption. While they’re cheap and useful, however, they’re not the best for the environment.
For one thing, they emit large amounts of pollutants when burned including nitrogen oxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, all of which contribute to global warming.
Not only that, but the burning of fossil fuels can also cause acid rain—a type of precipitation that can affect various ecosystems.
Fortunately, there are renewable energy sources that you can turn to, solar energy being one of them.
What makes it better than other types of energy? Find out by reading the rest of the post!
What Is a Renewable Energy Source?
Renewable energy is derived from natural resources that aren’t finite or exhaustible. Some examples include solar energy, hydro energy, wind energy, and geothermal energy, all of which emit little to no greenhouse gases.
This means a smaller carbon footprint, which will have a positive impact on the environment.
About Solar Energy
Solar energy refers to energy from the sun. More specifically, it’s the conversion of the sun’s rays into thermal or electrical energy through photovoltaic panels or mirrors; the energy can then be used to heat, cool, and light homes.
To harness this type of power, you must install solar panels on the roof. This is not some DIY project that you can do on a Sunday afternoon, it really requires professional help. Companies like SunPower by Custom Energy are the right choice, as they’re in the business for 25 years and offer the most durable solar panels out there.
8 Reasons Why You Should Switch to Solar Energy
Solar energy is one of the cleanest technologies available. Here are eight reasons why you should use it in your home.
- It Will Save You Money In the Long Run
A solar panel system will allow you to generate your own free power. In doing so, it can drastically reduce or even eliminate your electric bills.
Over time, this can save you tens of thousands of dollars. For example, if your monthly electric bill is $100, it can save you $24,000 over a period of 20 years.
- It Will Increase Your Property Value
Homes equipped for solar power have higher property values. According to a study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, they sell for 17% more than those that run on electricity.
Keep in mind, however, that this is only true if you own the system. It will not increase your home’s value if you’re installing them through a lease.
- It’s Much Better For the Environment
Installing solar panels is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. For a typical two-person household, it will reduce carbon emissions by three to four tons every year.
As a result, there will be less air pollution and greenhouse gases. And over time, this can help reduce the effect of climate change.
- It’s Low Maintenance
Solar panels don’t have moving parts; this makes them durable as there’s very little to maintain.
Not only that, but the rain will wash off any dirt or dust that accumulates on the surface. And for those who live in the desert, spraying the panels down once a year will be enough to keep them functioning optimally.
- It Helps Create New Jobs
Solar energy can help your local economy by creating jobs. More specifically, it’ll offer more opportunities for low and middle-skilled workers.
For those who are curious, the industry has grown by 167 percent over the past decade, reaching nearly 250,000 jobs, according to the National Solar Jobs Census.
- It Makes Human Healthy a Priority
The air we breathe will be cleaner and less toxic if everyone switches to solar power.
You won’t have to worry about breathing in excess amounts of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and other gases, all of which are potentially harmful to humans and animals.
- It’s a Good Return On Investment
Solar panels can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $25,000. Once you’ve made it through the payback period, however, your entire system will be all profit.
On average, this will take about 6 to 10 years. At the end of the day, it depends on various factors such as the type of panels installed and the cost of electricity.
- It’ll Let You Take Advantage of Federal and State Incentives
In the United States, there’s a federal solar tax credit that allows you to receive a 26% tax credit on any money that you spend on solar panel installation.
Depending on where you live, there might also be state rebates that you can take advantage of. For example, some local governments may offer cash rebates to those who choose to buy a solar system.
Note: The federal tax credit will remain at 26% until 2022 before being reduced to 22% in 2023. In 2024, the tax credit will end for residential installations.
Choosing the Right Solar Installation Company
Most installers will offer free estimates. Take advantage of them; it’ll let you compare your options and shop around. Also, make sure to check the warranty (most will provide you with a 20 to 25-year warranty for the panels).
And don’t hesitate to ask for referrals from your friends and family. After all, it’s much easier to gauge the reliability of a company by asking previous clients.
With that said, you can always search for “solar providers near me”—that works too. Just make sure to do your research on the individual companies that come up.
Switching to Solar Energy
Switching to a renewable energy source such as solar power will allow you to reap various benefits. For one thing, it can save your wallet tens of thousands of dollars in the long run!
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