Climate change is one of the most hotly discussed topics in our time. The general consensus is that the world needs to be doing more to prevent global warming and its effects.
One of the solutions touted by scientists is to shift towards using renewable energy sources – currently, the use of coal and gas results in increasing carbon levels, which contribute to global warming. As a result, by adopting renewable energy, we may be able to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
One of the most popular renewable energy sources today is solar power, given that it is one of the easiest and cheapest to adopt. Unlike geothermal energy or hydropower, individual households or buildings can switch to solar power without much resources or investment. As a result, the residential solar power installation use is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners.
Here are some reasons to join the trend and adopt solar power as your home’s primary energy source:
Boost your energy independence
It is not unheard of today to hear of power disruptions that can leave homes without electricity for a certain period of time. Furthermore, utility prices can fluctuate greatly and can even increase dramatically, given the unsustainability of our current energy sources.
By installing solar panels in your home, you will be able to achieve self-sufficiency with regards to your energy needs and no longer have to depend on the power grid. This allows you to be in full control of your electricity at home, and even to greatly reduce your utility expenses as you are better able to budget your electricity use and allocation.
Contribute to a greener world
Perhaps the most famous argument today in favor of shifting to renewable energy sources is the positive impact that this has on the environment. Using solar energy helps you reduce your carbon footprint, and if enough people take on this individual action, this can have a big impact on the environment. In fact, according to some studies, a residential solar panel system can reduce carbon emissions by up to three to four tons annually. This is the equivalent of planting 100 trees.
More than anything, however, switching to solar power sets a good example for your friends and family. This illustrates that you are really committed to creating a better future and a better world, and could even encourage them to follow in your footsteps and take the initiative to adopt environmentally-friendly practices as well.
Earn a good return on investment
One of the reasons why people are so hesitant to switch to renewable sources of energy is that they believe that it will be too expensive. While there will definitely be expenses at the start, these are actually assets that you are investing in, and that will help you reap great returns in the future.
Renewables are touted as the future of energy, and so it would be wise to invest in them now before their price and value increase. For example, a home that is outfitted with solar panels will increase the value and worth of a home. Thus, should you want to sell your home, or even your solar panels to get an upgrade, you can be sure that you will be getting good deals for these, thus making investing in solar power a wise decision.
