How Can Solar Energy Help Achieve Clean Energy Goals?

It is no surprise that solar energy is a healthier, more sustainable alternative to generating electricity than non-renewable sources. Unlike fossil fuels, solar preserves the planet’s resources and provides an environmentally safe and economically promising method for energy generation over the long term. Based on the Department of Energy’s Solar Futures Study, 40% of the nation’s energy sourcing could come from solar by 2035. Even though most people are aware of the positive impact of solar on the environment, they still lack clarity on why it has gained so much popularity over recent years, as well as how exactly it can serve as a major tool to achieve clean energy goals in the U.S.

Below is a breakdown of the mechanics of solar energy and why it is crucial to achieving a healthier, more environmentally safe America.

How does solar work?

There are two ways to generate solar energy: using a photovoltaic system (PV) or a concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP) system. 

Photovoltaic system

• When exposed to sunlight, the semiconductor materials that make up solar panels absorb solar energy and release electrons.
• This in turn produces a direct current that runs through the solar panels. The direct current is then converted into an alternate current that powers homes, businesses or any other place that utilizes solar energy. 

Concentrating solar-thermal power system

It relies on mirrors to reflect and trap sunlight energy before converting that energy into heat.

This is commonly used in large power stations

Why is solar energy better than fossil fuels?

Currently, most energy produced in the United States comes from non-renewable fossil fuels, like coal or natural gas, that are burned to release energy. Non-renewable energy sources generate a few problems. These non-renewables are finite resources extracted from the earth, meaning we can and will run out of them eventually. Moreover, fossil fuels release toxic greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

Sourcing clean energy from renewable sources like solar is a game changer. This enables communities to become less dependent on fossil fuels and significantly slows down the progress of climate change and its impact on the planet.

What are the benefits of going solar?

Reduced carbon footprint and improved air quality

Even though the production of solar panels does emit small amounts of carbon emissions, the electricity produced from solar energy is 100% clean and free of harmful greenhouse gases. This still results in a net positive environmental impact. 

Over time, this means less pollution and better air quality. Thanks to its energy being free of toxic gases like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide, solar also helps to reduce the incidence of acid rain which is highly detrimental to the earth’s wildlife and ecosystems.

Preservation of natural resources

The sun is an infinite resource. So as long as it keeps shining, there will always be solar energy to be produced!

Additionally, in cases of power outages or severe climate events, battery storage and innovative microgrid technologies are currently being engineered for community solar systems, enhancing the reliability of solar systems. They will ensure that regardless of any unexpected power event, the benefits from solar energy will be accessible any day and any time.

Increased accessibility to renewable energy

With every household that goes solar, we are one step closer to achieving a cleaner, more sustainable America.

Nobody is excluded. The option of community solar is available for low-income communities or to those who do not have the financial means or infrastructure to install their own solar panels.

The more people make the move to solar energy, the faster we can achieve our national and local sustainable energy goals.