The terms “solar,” “green energy” and “renewable energy” are words that seemed to have long played out their value in the United States. When words or phrases inundate the media, the public at large starts to disregard the significance of the message associated with the word. Psychology tells us that when we become desensitized to something, there is a diminished emotional response to something after repeated exposure. In layman’s terms, we stop caring. When it comes to renewable energy and an increased dependence on solar energy, apathy and disregard is a step in the wrong direction. Now, solar energy is more important than ever. This short article outlines why we need to reintroduce ourselves to solar power and reinvigorate the energy surrounding solar energy.
Increase in Consumption World Wide
Solar is important because there is no predicted decrease in energy consumption in the next 20 years. In fact, the U.S. Energy Information Administration projects a 48% increase in world energy consumption by 2040 . Much of the global increase is associated to higher demand dictated by countries with strong economic growth. This increase in consumption comes with an increased concern about energy security, effects of fossil fuel emissions on the environment and increasingly high prices of the energy sources. Even with increased attention over energy use and alternative energy use throughout the world, there is no slowing on consumption demands.
Increase in Consumption in California
Alongside increases in consumption in the world, California also has no foreseeable decreases in energy consumption. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported that as California is the most populated state in the nation with the largest economy, energy demand is second highest in the nation, taking second place to Texas. Luckily, because California has been on the leading edge of both residential and commercial solar installation in the country, the traditional energy grid has not been intensively impacted. Hence, it can be assumed that to maintain access to energy resources in California, the increased dependence on renewable energy sources is expected as current demands are only met with a variety of renewable energy sources as accompaniments to the traditional electrical grid.
Increase in Cost
The cost of electricity in California is not predicted to decrease. In fact, most reports that have been published in the last few years have emphasized the continually increased costs of electricity. Most consumers have seen increases in residential electrical rates throughout the country. The trend is unlikely to be disrupted as history shows increases in natural gas prices are partnered with increases in electricity prices. California has seen sharp price increases in the last decade and has no predicted slow-down in the near future.
Loss of Control
An often-overlooked reason as to why residential and commercial solar installation are vital is connected to the idea of control. Maintaining control over your utility is important. This allows you to understand costs, predict future costs and regulate when, and how you would like to use your solar energy. Being fully dependent on the electrical grid means that your choices are regulated, and mandated, by what the utility and the superseding government entities determine. One way to maintain control over your energy use is to own your own energy with solar panels and a solar battery storage system.
Solar is a Solution
Solar is a core solution to the continuing energy concerns of the world, and our state. Solar power is a renewable power supply that demands minimum maintenance and allows for the protection of natural resources and feeds into a healthy environment. Plus, as there are concerns regarding diminishing non-renewable energy sources, such as coal or other fossil fuels, solar power has an infinite supply, meaning as long as there is sun, there is solar power. Additionally, solar power can grow with increasing demands on state, nation and international energy demands. Since it is renewable and infinite, increasing access to answer to increased demand is simple. Outside of answering to demand, solar panels allow a homeowner or a business owner to control how and when they use their energy and are not restricted by the utility. Furthermore, the added benefit of owning your own power means that you can insulate yourself against fluctuating, or increasing, prices.
Learn More
The important message is that solar is not something that we should be ignoring, or a concept we should be desensitized to. Solar energy is a vital aspect of global development and personal gain. If you still have lingering questions regarding solar or if you want to learn how solar can answer to your personal needs, take the time to reach out to one of our Energy Advisers. Our Energy Adviser’s are knowledgeable, well-trained solar professionals who are ready to help you learn how solar can answer to your home or work needs.
Ajay Verma says
For a better sustainable future we should go for renewable energy.The solar energy is the best example for it.You have shared an amazing article.Solar energy has lots of applications and it is the best source of energy.Thanks for sharing.
Shikha says
Good Article but I need more information about the difference between solar energy and electricity power consumption; cost; future.