Thứ Bảy, 12 tháng 1, 2013

How Can Solar Energy Help the World?

Perhaps that question should be turned around to impart its true significance by stating this question as "How could solar energy not help the world?"
Did you know that one kerosene lamp, a common piece of lighting equipment in rural areas and developing countries, creates about one ton of carbon emissions in a period of about seven years? That may not sound too bad... until you consider there are approximately 2.5 billion people globally who have no access to any power source of any kind, therefore relying on kerosene and other fossil fuels, for light and heat. Now, does the carbon emission impact begin to make sense?
And...did you know the average US citizen produces 5 tons ( 10,000 pounds) of CO2 a year from the use of fossil fuels? (Wow...how's that for a big footprint?
Solar power can help the world...not only survive...but thrive...by serving basic needs while reducing environmental pollution. Solar power for light, heat, and water is not only feasible, but vital for global survival and growth.
Many third world countries have excellent solar energy potential, but most of the people who live there are unaware of its existence. Or...it has either been unavailable or too expensive for them to consider. And... they are also the biggest market for renewable energy products, like solar systems.
Considering the sun provides an unlimited supply of renewable clean energy, anything and everything we can do to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and increase our reliance on solar energy will help the world. Every watt of power generated from the sun is pollution-free, while every watt of power generated from fossil fuel adds to the world's pollution.
Using solar power is cost free...after paying for the initial cost of components and installation. There's no maintenance, and solar energy is silent, thereby reducing noise pollution as well.
The average home currently emits about 18 tons of greenhouse gas into the environment in a year with fossil fuel...no such pollution exists with solar energy.
And...one of the biggest advantages on a world scale...is the ability to create self-sufficient home systems in rural areas where normal power distribution is not economically feasible.
One of the most prominent organizations in bringing solar energy to the developing world is an organization called SELF, Solar Energy Light Fund, which describes itself as a "cutting edge, independent, not-for-profit organization that designs and implements sustainable energy solutions for enhancements in health, education, agriculture and economic growth in the developing world."
SELF has partnered with government and non-governmental organizations in more than 15 developing countries to bring solar electrification to villages and homes without existing resources. Their projects have helped create solar electrical systems for schools, water systems, irrigation, health clinics...and income-generating work in poverty-stricken areas.
Solar panels currently have a an average 25-year life with a 10-year payback. Thin film technologies are predicted to decrease cost, increase innovation for use, and flexibility. This market is exploding, especially in the area of thin film batteries.
Solar energy is gaining momentum worldwide. It's a technology that works. Investment in solar energy is growing, and as it becomes more and more widely adopted, economies of scale, and funding for new technological efficiencies will make it even more economical. As the price of gasoline and other fossil fuels continue to climb, there is no question more and more individuals, companies, and countries will move to solar energy as their source of power for home, vehicle and other energy needs.
There are many solar power benefits, and it's here to stay. Let's face it, the faster solar energy replaces fossil fuel as a primary source of energy, the better off the world will be.
Timothy Peters is a renewable energy enthusiast and author. He lives in Spokane, WA and enjoys teaching others how to save money on their utility bill and help the planet through renewable energy. To find out more about solar power benefits, check out his site at: www.homesolarpowerexplained.com/


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