Solar Energy and the Environment

It is common for electricity to be generated from dirty sources like coal, nuclear, and natural gas. Installing solar panels is a way to contribute to a cleaner environment and create a more sustainable future. There are many ways that solar helps the environment. Here's how:

Solar Energy Reduces Greenhouse Gases and CO2 Emissions

Depending on the state, an average home can use anywhere between 515 kWh - 1,273 kWh per month of energy. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average U.S. residential customer uses approximately 909 kWh per month of energy, or around 10,909 kWh per year!

A solar system allows for that number to be significantly reduced. A modest-sized solar system can reduce usage by approximately 80%, with others approaching 100%. This indicates that the environmental impact of solar is significant. With this type of clean energy production, going solar can offset the CO2 emissions and the greenhouse gases to create a cleaner environment.

Solar Energy Reduces Air Pollution

Along with the decline of greenhouse gases and CO2 emissions, solar energy can actually help improve overall air quality. Solar energy results in very few air pollutants. With more solar projects around the globe, nitrous oxides, sulfur dioxides, and particulate matter emissions would be significantly reduced.

According to the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCSUSA), "The air and water pollution emitted by coal and natural gas plants is linked to breathing problems, neurological damage, heart attacks, and cancer." Solar power is found to result in fewer cases of health issues, such as chronic bronchitis, respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

By going solar, you can reduce your carbon footprint, while simultaneously creating a more healthy environment for you and your neighbors.  

Solar Energy Reduces Water Pollution

Reducing greenhouse gases, CO2 emissions and producing cleaner air are more commonly known benefits of going solar. But, did you know that solar energy also reduces water pollution? It may be one of its most beneficial environmental advantages.

All manufacturing products require some water, including the process of making solar panels. However, the amount of water that is needed to generate solar electricity is significantly less than the more traditional electricity sources. Coal, nuclear, natural gas and coal-fired facilities require massive amounts of water. Solar energy provides almost no risk to local water resources.

Solar Energy Reduces Hazardous Waste

According to the United Nations Environmental Program, more than 400 million tons of hazardous waste is produced every year. That's a lot of hazardous waste! These materials can have a detrimental effect of human health and the environment. Solar power, unlike other traditional energy sources, does not need fuel to generate electricity. This reduces the production and disposal of hazardous and potentially radioactive waste.

We care about the environment and you should too! Interested in solar energy? Get a free quote at ionsolar.com or call 888-781-7074!

Sources:

• https://news.energysage.com/health-environmental-benefits-of-solar-energy/
• https://www.sunvalleysolar.com/blog/top-four-ways-solar-positively-impacts-environment
• https://www.ecomarksolar.com/blog/how-denver-solar-panels-help-environment/