The sun is an invaluable source of energy, and its advantages are only getting better. Its endless supply of rays can be harnessed anywhere, making it accessible and efficient.
Solar power is one of the key drivers in the push for a cleaner, more sustainable future – it creates no emissions and helps us become more self-sufficient.
We’ve detailed 8 unique benefits of solar energy here, such as its effect on climate change and more. Our star is a powerful, studied force that serves to move us ever closer to a world powered by renewable energy sources.
It helps combat global warming, provides clean energy, and encourages independence from fossil fuels. Solar has endless potential – so let’s tap into it!
1. Solar energy is both renewable and unlimited
Our stellar companion, the immutable and unlimited Sun, has been lending its energy to us since time immemorial. Despite its eventual end in four or five billion years, it continues to provide us with a reliable source of energy on a much more immediate scale. Day after day and year after year, its uncontested presence remains constant.
The rays of the sun are plentiful and enduring. If the planet were a flat disc oriented towards our star, each square meter would absorb 1,377 watts of solar power.
However, since Earth is round and its atmosphere tends to act as a barrier in certain conditions, middle latitudes only receive a tenth of that energy.
Nevertheless, if we manage to seize just 6% of that energy, it would suffice to meet the needs of all humanity.
2. Solar energy is everywhere
No matter where one goes, the sun’s radiant energy can be found. Its presence is a double-edged blessing, as it provides an accessible source of power for any region, regardless of infrastructure or difficulties in reaching it.
This makes it especially beneficial for rural and remote locales that may otherwise lack resources. Not only does this offer a viable solution, but it is one that is pervasive – sunlight being abundant everywhere on Earth.
Solar energy is an accessible choice for people looking to make a difference in their eco-footprint at a personal level. Unlike many other renewable sources, the installation of solar panels on roofs is simple and gives people the ability to generate their own electricity quickly and efficiently.
When harnessed correctly, this electricity can be used to power everything from lighting to air conditioning. The ability to access and use solar energy on an individual level is a huge asset in terms of becoming more sustainable.
Electricity generated from solar power can be easily transferred and distributed to other parts of the world. This opens up the potential for creating large solar farms in regions that receive the most amount of sunlight, such as the equator or desert areas.
Not only can these locations take advantage of solar energy more effectively, but they can also be used to generate huge quantities of electricity.
3. Solar energy is well suited to batteries and electricity grids
Modern advances in photovoltaics have enabled the development of dependable, efficient storage solutions that facilitate the balancing of energy demand and solar production.
In many countries, electricity grids can now be connected directly to solar sources, allowing both private individuals and businesses to capitalize on the cost-savings and revenue generated through the sale of their excess energy.
This not only brings financial advantages but also offers a unique opportunity for underserved areas of the world — including Africa — to access electricity for the first time.
In this way, photovoltaics can make great strides in improving quality of life and economic prosperity on a global scale.
4. Solar Energy creates local wealth and jobs
The photovoltaic sector is set to experience tremendous growth, with job opportunities for developers, builders, installers, and technicians expected to exceed 22 million worldwide by 2050 – a dramatic increase from 3.8 million in 2019.
Solar energy not only provides clean and sustainable power, but it also brings a multitude of economic benefits through its potential to generate local wealth and jobs.
The advent of solar energy provides families, businesses, and countries with a viable investment opportunity, as highlighted by a recent study published in Science Direct, job creation during the global energy transition to 100% renewable power systems by 2050.
5. Solar energy is versatile with Technology
Solar energy is an incredibly versatile resource, with a range of technologies available to harness its potential. Photovoltaic cells, thermal systems, and the most advanced thermodynamic solar power plants are all able to make use of this renewable energy source.
Solar energy also produces comparatively little noise compared to other sources such as fossil fuels, making it ideal for any location. Its mute nature is invaluable and its versatility has made it increasingly popular.
Whether powering homes or businesses, the variety of technologies available ensures that solar energy can be tailored to suit any need.
6. Solar energy requires minimal maintenance
Photovoltaic panels may slowly become less effective over their 20-25 years of use, but the upkeep is no different than any other electrical system.
To sustain peak operation, some occasional scrubbing and a quick check-up are all that is needed. This makes solar energy remarkably low-maintenance, relieving you from the hassles of regular upkeep.
7. Solar energy will remain green until the end
Solar energy is an environmentally-friendly choice that will continue to remain so into the future. The installation of solar panels is straightforward, and when it’s time to discard them, they are easy to dismantle and their materials can be repurposed.
This helps devote fewer resources to a project and keeps its environmental footprint small. Additionally, due to their modular nature, solar arrays can be built to suit the size and area needed, ranging from small dwellings to industrial-scale farms. This versatility makes them suitable for any location.
8. Solar energy is a solid and reliable technology
In the present day, solar energy has become a dependable and trustworthy approach. Photovoltaics are no longer a novelty, but instead a highly developed technology – with its effectiveness, lifespan, and efficiency all tested to exceed expectations. Gone are the days of experimentation; now we have a suite of solutions that can be relied upon.
In recent years, the potential of solar energy has become more and more evident. This is due to both increasing efficiency ratings that have surpassed 20% and the decreasing costs of installation.
Since solar panels are becoming more affordable, they are becoming a viable option for individuals looking to switch to renewable energy sources.
Moreover, advancements in technology have made it possible to achieve performance levels that were once thought to be unattainable. All of this clearly indicates an upbeat future for solar energy.