Is Solar Energy the way forward?


Solar energy has been around for longer than you might expect. Before Edison and his lightbulb, the world worked in a very different way; think back to old panemone windmills used for grinding down grains and drawing up water. Of course, the world has changed a lot since then and so has the way in which we use energy. To date the global consumption of renewable energy is roughly 20% and continuing to rise, with solar energy taking centre stage in everyday households. But is solar energy really the way forward, and is it the right choice for UK homes? Let’s take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of solar energy so you can decide!


First let’s look at the good news!


There’s plenty of it

The demand for energy is higher than ever as our technological world expands, but put your concerns over fossil fuel availability aside. Solar energy is abundant as long as we have our trusty sun, so there is no chance of running out! NASA tells us that annually every square meter of earth gets roughly 342 watts of solar energy. That’s an enormous 44 quadrillion watts combined. So, it’s safe to say there’s plenty of sun power to harness whilst leaving plenty of rays to catch your stunning summer tan.

It's Eco-friendly

Solar energy means using a ball of gas, without making a new one. Renewable energy accounts for almost 0% of greenhouse gas emissions. Power plants that refine wind or hydropower have the lowest greenhouse gas emissions, but we think sticking a windmill in your back garden might be a step too far. So, if you want to be a real eco warrior solar energy is the way to go!

Financial Benefits

Though initial installation prices can be costly, the long-term financial benefits are clear! This blog post is being written at a turbulent time in the UK with electrical providing companies taking advantage of considerable pricing increases. This has left many people struggling to meet energy bill demands, with electric prices not looking to decrease any time soon. So, what can you do? If you are able too, try to spread the cost. Investing in household solar panels can reduce costs of electricity in the long term whilst boosting economic development in the clean energy sector. Hold on, it gets better, going solar isn’t just about immediate bill benefits! Solar equipped homes sell faster and at higher prices, so solar panels are often a great way of investing in your homes future.  

Technological Advancements

It's important to think about both the benefits to your household and the benefits to the big picture of global renewability. So, how does investment in solar energy give us all a brighter future? In short, widespread use of renewable energy can have a big impact on reducing global CO2 emissions and air pollution, whilst boosting technological advancements and local economies. Advancements in solar paint, flexible solar panels, and increased energy storage capacity promise even greater sustainability in the long term. So, installing even one solar panel may feel like a small action to take but the knock-on effects can be huge!


Now let's look at the bad news


Storage Challenges

Electrical generation is dependent on location, especially in areas with volatile weather changes. Solar energy production can be inconsistent, and occasionally solar panels can be damaged or even broken. So, it’s important to ensure you have a comprehensive warranty on panels stalled within your household. Though battery storage systems are improving, they are not yet universally accessible, raising concerns about energy reliability.

Manufacturing

The production of solar panels requires an energy-intensive manufacturing process, and the use of rare and sometimes environmentally harmful materials. Some even argue that the use of such materials offset the environmental benefits of solar energy, but this is still hotly debated among field professionals. Nevertheless, manufacturing isn’t an easy process, and can be costly.

Land Use

Large-scale solar installations can consume significant land areas, potentially displacing natural habitats and impacting ecosystems. This is a big drawback when you consider that compared to fossil fuel power plants, solar plants produce a lower electrical output. Striking a balance between renewable energy development and environmental conservation still remains a challenge. Though it is a challenge that will not be overcome without further investment in innovation.


So, what is the take away?

The debate over the sustainability of solar energy is complex. While it offers numerous environmental, economic, and technological advantages, it still has its drawbacks. It's important to remember that sustainability is an ongoing journey, and innovation is still playing a significant role in our sustainable energy future. Ultimately, the answer to whether solar energy is the right choice for your home is down to you. But whatever your choice, it certainly seems that solar energy is a contender for sustainable energy solutions.

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