Solar energy can save us money, but many people are hesitant to switch to it because they fear that it will increase their electric bills even more than what they’re paying now with fossil fuels. But that’s simply not true! In fact, by switching to solar, you’ll be saving the environment and money at the same time! Learn how solar can save the environment and your pocketbook in this article.
The Dangers of Fossil Fuels
Fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, are finite resources. The burning of these resources releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere that contribute to climate change. This is a problem because climate change is already hurting our environment and economies by melting glaciers, increasing sea levels, and causing extreme weather events like hurricanes. In addition to their contributions to climate change, fossil fuels also produce health-harming pollution. These dangers make it more important than ever for us to find sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. One option that’s growing in popularity is solar energy. It has many benefits over other types of renewable energy. For starters, solar power doesn’t rely on unpredictable wind or water sources like wind turbines or hydroelectric dams do; they only need sun and clear skies to produce clean energy. Plus, solar power costs less per kilowatt hour than other types of renewable energy (wind and geothermal) meaning it can save you money on your electric bill in the long run. If you think solar power sounds great but don’t know where to start, we have some tips below:
1. Get educated about what type of system best suits your needs by reading through this blog post and this infographic.
2. Check out financing options from programs like GreenPowerSF or select one from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency.
3. Contact an expert who can help guide you through the process with no obligation and provide information about how much a system will cost upfront and how much you'll save in the future. They may be able to answer questions you didn't even know you had. After all, choosing a solar panel installation company is a big decision! There are many companies out there so take your time and do your research before making any commitments. Once you decide which company is right for you, sign up online and then head back here to learn how to get your property ready for panels. Good luck with saving the environment while saving cash with solar energy!
The Benefits of Switching to Solar
We all know that our dependence on fossil fuels is bad for the environment. But did you know that switching to solar can also save you money?
* Research has shown that customers who switch to solar energy can see a reduction of up to 73% in their electric bill.
* Switching to solar means not just saving on your electricity costs, but also helping the environment.
* Studies have shown that greenhouse gas emissions are reduced by an average of 25%-40% in residential neighborhoods with rooftop solar panels. ** By 2020, about 20% of total U.S. power generation will come from renewable sources-and this number will only increase as more people turn to solar.* Not only does this reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and help combat climate change, but it also reduces pollution caused by power plants.* With less pollution from these plants comes less sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions which cause smog.* Smog not only damages crops and irritates respiratory systems, but it also causes acid rain which damages lakes and streams.** The cost savings alone make switching to solar worth it-especially when you consider what you're doing for the environment at the same time. You don't need to install solar panels on your home or invest in expensive technology to start using solar power; there are many affordable options available now. For example, one company offers a $0 down lease program where they'll install, own, maintain and monitor solar equipment on your property. What could be better than that?
How Solar Panels Save You Money
Solar power is an increasingly popular energy source, especially among people who want to save money and help protect the environment. However, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about solar panels that might keep you from installing them on your roof. Here are some of those myths debunked:
-Myth: Solar Panels Are Too Expensive
-Myth: I'm Not Able To Get The Same Amount Of Power I Need From Solar Panels
-Myth: It's Too Difficult To Install Them On My Roof By Myself
-Myth: The Government Will Help Pay For Them For Me -Myth: Solar Panels Don't Work If It Rains
-Myth: You'll Be Locked Into A Long-Term Contract
-Myth: Solar Panels Make Your Home Look Ugly -Myth: Solar Panels Make Your Home Look Ugly
Solar panels are now available in many different styles, sizes, and colors so they can easily blend in with your home without looking ugly. There are even some companies that will design custom-made solar panels for homes.
Homeowners should not worry about how their homes will look with these new improvements; instead, they should focus on how the installation of solar panels will benefit their finances by saving them money and reducing their carbon footprint. Some homeowners may still be hesitant because they do not know if the government offers any incentives or programs that would provide subsidies for their purchase of solar panels. To address this myth, it is important to know what the current federal tax credits are as well as if any state or local governments offer additional incentives. As it turns out, there are a few options at hand depending on which state you live in but one thing is clear—the government wants us all to use renewable sources of energy like solar power.
How You Can Help
There are many ways you can help save our environment by using less energy and solar power. Here are a few easy steps to get you started.
- Turn off lights when they're not needed. - When cooking, use a microwave or stovetop instead of an oven. - Use your dishwasher or washing machine only when full, and try to use cold water if possible. - Install a timer on your sprinkler system so that it runs in the early morning hours when temperatures are cool and there is no chance of evaporation loss due to high heat during the day. - Take public transportation when possible, carpool with friends, work from home one day a week, bike or walk instead of driving whenever possible. Make sure appliances are turned off when not in use and install weather stripping around doors and windows to reduce airflow leakage. These changes will have an immediate impact on your wallet as well as our environment! - By turning off unnecessary lights, the average person saves $147 per year. - Every time someone uses their dishwasher instead of running their washer and dryer, they save $72 per year.
- Turning down thermostat settings (even just 2 degrees) saves over 3 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions every year!
- Carpooling, biking, or walking saves 627 gallons of gas annually while lowering CO2 emissions by 1 ton each year!
- The average household may cut their electricity bill by 10% if they follow these simple suggestions for conserving energy!
You must be logged in to post a comment.