The real question about solar energy might better be stated as “How could solar energy not help the world?”
Were you aware that one single kerosene lamp, commonly the only piece of lighting equipment in many rural areas and developing countries will emit about one ton of carbon emissions over a seven-year period? I know, that doesn’t sound terrible…until you think about the fact that there are approximately 2.5 billion people on the planet who don’t have access to any kind of power other than kerosene, other fossil fuels, or animal dung for heat and light. Now we’re talking about a pretty big impact, right?
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.
Using solar energy, the world can not only survive, but thrive, by providing access to basic needs and reducing environmental pollution. Not only is solar energy feasible for light, heat, and water, it’s vital for global survival and growth.
Many third world countries have excellent solar energy potential, but most of the people who live there are unaware of its power-providing potential. Or…it has either been unavailable or too expensive for them to consider. And… they are also the biggest market for renewable energy products, like solar systems.
Considering the sun provides an unlimited supply of renewable clean energy, anything and everything we can do to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and increase our reliance on solar energy will help the world. Every watt of power generated from the sun is pollution-free, while every watt of power generated from fossil fuel adds to the world’s pollution.
Using solar energy is cost free…after paying for the initial cost of components and installation. There’s no maintenance, and solar energy is silent, thereby reducing noise pollution as well.
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.
A big advantage on the global scale is the creation of self-sufficient home solar energy in many rural areas where conventional (normal) power distribution just isn’t viable economically.
One of the most prominent organizations in bringing solar energy to the developing world is an organization called SELF, Solar Energy Light Fund, which 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.”
Partnered with government and non-governmental organizations, SELF has helped to bring electrification to villages and homes that had no existing resources, in more than 15 developing countries. Their work on numerous projects has helped provide solar energy powered electricity for irrigation and water systems, as well as health clinics and schools. In addition, this has produced income-generating work in poverty-stricken areas.
Currently, solar panels are expected to last about 25 years, and have a 10-year payback. New technologies, particularly thin-film technologies, are expected to increase innovative use and flexibility, and decrease solar panel costs. This market is currently expanding rapidly, particularly for thin film batteries.
Solar energy is gaining ground worldwide. The technology works. More investment is being made in solar energy, and as it is more widely adopted, the economies of scale, together with more funding to create new technological efficiencies, will make solar energy more and more affordable. There is no question more and more individuals, companies and countries will move to solar energy as a power source for all their energy needs as fossil fuel prices continue to escalate.
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.
Timothy Peters is a renewable energy enthusiast and author. He lives in Spokane, WA and enjoys teaching others how to help the planet through renewable energy. To find out more about solar power benefits, check out his site at: www.HomeSolarPowerExplained.com/
