A renewable energy source is one that we won't run out of any time soon. Other sources of energy, such as coal, fossil fuels and even nuclear energy are considered non-renewable because we can - and in some cases already are - running out of them. One of the wonderful things about solar energy is that there is more than enough of it to provide the energy for the whole world! The sun brings us 120,000 terawatts of solar energy: that's about 20,000 times more than the planet needs. Using solar power, we will have enough energy for generations to come.
2.
3.
4. Solar Energy Is ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
Harnessing solar energy does generally not cause pollution. Once you put solar panels on your roof, capturing solar energy does not contribute to pollution. However, some pollution is created when the panels are manufactured, transported and installed in your home. Even that amount of pollution is negligible compared to the pollution created by coal and fossil fuel powered energy.
5. Solar Energy Is AVAILABLE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD
You might associate solar energy with sunny spots in the world, such as the American Southwest or countries near the equator. But every country in the world receives sunlight and therefore can use solar energy for power.
6. Solar Power Will LOWER YOUR ELECTRIC BILLS
Although the cost of installing solar panels can be high up front, over time solar panels will lower your electric bills. Depending on where you live and how many panels you install, you may even be able to sell some of your excess electricity back to the power company and make money off your solar panels! You also have the option of leasing solar panels instead of purchasing them, which can reduce or eliminate the cost of paying to install them yourself.
7. Solar Panels Are SILENT
Because the photovoltaic panels used in solar panels have no moving parts, they generate electricity silently. If you've ever heard a gas generator or wind turbine, you know that other forms of power can be very noisy.
8. Solar Panels Are LOW MAINTENANCE
Once solar panels are installed, they rarely require any sort of maintenance aside from cleaning twice per year. Most solar panels today come with 20 or even 25 year warranties. Make sure the panels you buy have an excellent warranty.
9. IN THE US, MANY REBATES AND INCENTIVES ARE AVAILABLE FOR HOMEOWNERS WHO WISH TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS.
The majority of homeowners in the US will qualify for some sort of government incentive or rebate on installing solar panels. These rebates can reduce the cost to you by more than half! The US government offers a 30% tax credit with no limit. To learn more and see what solar rebates you might qualify for, find your state in our Easy List of Solar Rebates or check out the: Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE).
10. You Can BUY OR LEASE SOLAR PANELS.
The set up costs for solar panels can be prohibitive for some people. Fortunately, new solar panel leasing companies have sprung up recently to address that problem. Instead of having to pay thousands to purchase new solar panels for your home, you can lease solar panels for no money up front!
