Our earth is just one of the many planets orbiting around the sun. Everything within our solar system hangs in a delicate balance of distance between each object. Space and the vastness of it is mind-blowing when you think about it. Of all the bodies in space, the Earth is the only one we know that supports life naturally. Gaia, earth, has the perfect atmosphere for a thriving existence. This is made possible by the sun and the energy we get from it. Without an exact distance from the sun, the Earth would either be too hot or too cold to sustain a living organism. The sun not only provides us daylight, but other benefits like vitamin D lowers blood pressure, and is a mood enhancer. However, the sun’s effects do not just stop with just physical benefits.
Over the years, scientists and innovators have begun to realize the potential energy the sun can provide us. As we continue to deplete unrenewable resources, the need for a renewable alternative has never been greater. Great strides have been made to move towards alternative forms of energy such as wind-powered electricity and battery-powered cars. Both of these sustainable energy sources provide a fantastic alternative to our ever-depleting oil and gas resources. With that being said, they do not harness the sun’s endless solar energy.
Solar energy is something that has been experimented with for centuries with the first documented discovery in 1839 by Alexandre Edmond Becquerel1. In the more recent future, solar power is becoming more and more accepted in America to the point where it is a household necessity for some.
These great strides are made possible through education and affordable solar energy technology. Today, solar panels have never been more available to the public. The installation of solar panels is a bit of an investment, however; the return on saved utility bill cost is worth it over time.
Other than saving money on electricity costs, there are several other advantages of solar panels:
1. Conventional electric usage emits tons of carbon monoxide into the earth’s atmosphere. Studies have found that this “carbon footprint” is the contributing factor to global warming. As much as global warming is an argued topic, the reality of the results of the pollution burning fuel in is factual. Solar panels reduce the emissions of carbon monoxide and are a renewable source of energy.
2. Solar panels are a financial investment and with all financial investments you expect an ROI. The great news is, installing solar panels on your home increases your property value and rate of sale. Solar panels are a great investment not only in the future of the environment but the future of your pocketbook by increasing your property value.
3. Tax season is not a favorite for most people, especially if you owe taxes. Over the last few years, tax incentives have become available for those who install solar panels. With the Federal Solar Tax Credit, one can receive 30% back for the cost of the equipment and installation2. Remember folks, this is a credit NOT a deduction which means the 30% is refunded regardless of your income bracket.
Solar panels not only make sense financially but help to preserve the earth. As stated before, life on other planets will not be easy. So, let’s make our current planet last a long time and use renewable energy sources as much as possible.
Source:
Solar panel brief history and overview
Read more:
- Unleashing Energy from Waste: Anaerobic Digestion
- Harnessing the Power of Life: Biomass Energy
- Harnessing Nature’s Flow: Run-of-River Hydroelectricity
- Power on Demand: Unleashing the Potential of Pumped Storage Hydropower
- Harnessing the Power of Water: Hydroelectric Power