The Impact of Solar: Clean and Renewable Energy

 

The world has been operating on fossil fuels for centuries, so many people ask, “Why should we switch to renewable energy when the infrastructure for fossil fuels already exists?”

Push for Renewable Energy

In recent years, there has been a significant movement in the US to move away from fossil fuels and switch to renewable energy sources. Many countries around the world have already changed to more renewable energy sources. With other countries switching to renewable energy sources, the US has been looking to do the same recently.

There are several reasons why there is a push for renewable energy:

1. Environmental concerns: Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power do not emit harmful pollutants into the atmosphere like fossil fuels. This means that renewable energy sources are much cleaner and better for the environment.
   
   
2. Climate change: The use of fossil fuels for energy production is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. Using renewable energy sources can reduce our carbon footprint and slow the pace of climate change.
   
   
3. Energy security: Renewable energy sources are often found domestically and do not rely on imports, which can help to reduce a country’s dependence on foreign oil and gas.
   
   
4. Economic benefits: Renewable energy sources can provide economic benefits by creating jobs in the renewable energy industry and reducing energy costs for consumers.
   
   
5. Technological advances: The development and implementation of renewable energy sources have led to significant technological advancements in the energy sector. This has resulted in more efficient and cost-effective ways to produce and distribute energy.

Solar and Wind

Solar and wind are by far the most abundant and easily accessible forms of renewable energy available. While solar and wind are not the only forms of renewable energy, they are by far the easiest to bring to the masses, especially in landlocked states. These forms of renewable energy also typically require the least extensive infrastructure to be built to harness them. 

Solar

Solar power is a renewable energy technology that harnesses the energy from the sun and converts it into electricity. It involves using solar panels composed of photovoltaic cells that absorb sunlight and produce direct current (DC) electricity. The DC electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used to power homes, businesses, and other types of infrastructure. Solar power is a clean and sustainable source of energy that produces no greenhouse gas emissions, making it an essential component of efforts to address climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, solar power is becoming increasingly cost-competitive and widely adopted as technology advances, and economies of scale are achieved.

Wind

Wind power is a renewable energy technology that converts the kinetic energy of wind into electricity. It involves using wind turbines, consisting of large blades attached to a rotor that spins when the wind blows. The spinning rotor drives a generator, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy that can be used to power homes, businesses, and other types of infrastructure. Wind power is a clean and sustainable source of energy that produces no greenhouse gas emissions, making it an important component of efforts to address climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

What Will It Cost the Public To Make the Switch To Renewable Energy?

The cost to the public of switching to renewable energy sources can vary depending on several factors, including the type and scale of renewable energy projects, the location, and the existing energy infrastructure.

In some cases, the cost of renewable energy can be higher in the short term than traditional energy sources due to the initial investment needed for infrastructure and technology. However, over time, renewable energy can lead to cost savings due to the lower operational and maintenance costs associated with renewable energy sources compared to fossil fuels.

Additionally, some renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, are becoming increasingly cost-competitive with traditional energy sources. The decreasing cost of renewable energy technology has helped to make the transition to renewable energy more affordable for individuals, businesses, and governments.

There may also be additional costs associated with the transition to renewable energy, such as upgrading transmission and distribution infrastructure to accommodate the decentralized nature of renewable energy sources. However, the long-term benefits of reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved environmental health can outweigh these costs.

Overall, while there may be some short-term costs associated with the transition to renewable energy, the long-term benefits can lead to significant cost savings and improved environmental outcomes.

What’s Next?

With the US still heavily dependent on fossil fuels, most areas do not fully have the infrastructure to produce and distribute energy from renewable sources. As technology and infrastructure become more readily available, we could likely see more areas powered by renewable energy sources.

The team at Holladay Grace has been handpicked by GAF Energy as the first roofing contractor in Colorado Springs to be GAF Solar certified. Since 1979, Holladay Grace has been serving the roofing needs of the Front Range.

Are you interested in solar? Contact us for a free roof inspection today.