The real question about solar energy might better be stated as “How could solar energy not help the world?”
I wonder if you knew that one kerosene lamp, commonly used as the only lighting equipment in developing countries and rural areas, gives off about one ton of carbon emissions in seven years. Not that big a deal, you may be about to say. However, when you consider the 2.5 billion people globally who have only kerosene, other fossil fuels, or animal dung for light and heat, the impact begins to sink in, yes?
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.
Possessing excellent solar energy potential, many third world countries are simply unaware of its existence as a way to provide electrical power. Or, they consider it too expensive, or too hard to get. With their lack of conventional power, they are also the biggest potential market for solar and other renewable energy systems.
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.
The average home currently emits about 18 tons of greenhouse gas into the environment in a year with fossil fuel…no such pollution exists with solar energy.
And…one of the biggest advantages on a world scale…is the ability to create self-sufficient home systems in rural areas where normal (conventional) power distribution is not economically feasible.
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 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.
We now know that solar energy works…and it is here to stay. Without a doubt, the faster we replace fossil fuel with solar energy as our primary energy source, the better off we…and our environment…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/
categories: solar power benefits, solar power, green energy, society
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Please help us with information how we can install electricity in our village. We have never had electricity. Our Schools, colleges and hospitals need electricity.