The 5 Key Benefits of Solar Energy to the Environment

Why is solar energy good for the environment?

The answer is simple: many reasons.

In fact, solar power’s positive environmental impact is one of the most significant causes for the rising popularity of solar energy and the fact that homeowners and utilities alike have begun to choose solar power at increasing rates.

In addition to being a renewable resource, solar energy can also help consumers improve their health and safeguard the environment, one step at a time.

Here’s what you need to know about the positive environmental impacts of home solar energy.

5 Things Solar Energy Does for the Environment

There are many environmental benefits of renewable energy and many ways in which solar power helps the environment.

Here are a few of the most pronounced:

1. Solar panels for the home are clean and renewable.

As an alternative to fossil fuels, they help reduce the carbon footprint of home power, both domestically and abroad, and slash greenhouse gas production.

2. Solar energy is free.

Most of the polluting energy sources produced around the world cost large amounts of money. By contrast, solar power is free and available in abundance! Once you’ve installed solar panels for the home, solar energy can eventually diminish or negate your energy bill altogether.

3. Solar power reduces dependence on fossil fuels.

By providing a clean and safe alternative to fossil fuels, solar power makes it possible for people to access abundant and consistent energy that doesn’t harm the environment.

4. Solar power improves air quality.

Solar power produces few pollutants. As such, it reduces the concentration of nitrous oxides, sulfur dioxide, and more, which cause respiratory problems and similar issues in the human population. In fact, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that the widespread adoption of solar energy would improve air quality and result in fewer cases of bronchitis, cardiovascular problems, and respiratory issues.

5. Solar power decreases greenhouse gas emissions.

When people power their homes with solar panels, rather than fossil fuels, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions, specifically CO2. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports that the average home in Connecticut uses about 6,756 kilowatt-hours of electric power every year. If these homes switched to solar power, they’d reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions by the same rate as planting 155 trees would.

Solar Power and the California Central Coast

One of the places solar power is most important is the California Central Coast. California’s Central Coast is one of the most diverse ecosystems on earth, and traditional methods of energy, including fossil fuels, place it at risk.

Home to a vast expanse of landscapes, including sandy beaches, redwood forests, wineries, ranch lands, and more, the Central Coast harbors otters, seals, and an assortment of other wildlife.

Because solar power does not pollute the environment, place sensitive habitats at risk, or threaten these species, it is a fantastic way to protect vulnerable animal populations and ensure the wellbeing of the coast, ocean, and coastal animals for years to come.

How Does Solar Energy Reduce Global Warming?

Solar energy’s capacity to reduce global warming comes, in large part, from the fact that it cuts greenhouse gas emissions so drastically. When greenhouse gas emissions are released into the atmosphere via the burning of fossil fuels, they lead to rising global temperatures, which then leads to climate changes and holes in the ozone layer.

When these issues come together, they create public health issues, including sea level rise, extreme weather events, and changes in the ecosystem.

Luckily, solar energy reduces global demand for fossil fuels and makes it easier for people to shrink their carbon footprints. This, in turn, reduces global warming and helps keep the planet healthy.

Solar Power: The Path to a Healthier Environment

If you’re interested in helping the environment, solar power is a great path to take. Ideal for reducing carbon footprint, supporting healthier air and cleaner skies, and protecting sensitive habitats, including California’s central coast, solar power is one great way to promote the wellbeing of our planet.

Ready to learn more about solar power or take advantage of solar panels for your home? Contact Sandbar Solar today!