In a world still recovering from economic depression, it’s easy to see why people are becoming more interested in saving money. Money is a little tighter and the average American researches products and services heavily before they decide to make a commitment and buy it. Also influencing their decision is the growing concern over climate change and ways to mitigate the rising issues associated with it. Switching from gas and electric power to solar power and other alternative energy sources might be one of the ways that you can save money while also decreasing your carbon footprint.
This year, levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has reached over 400 parts per million (ppm). According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) in the 1960’s carbon levels were below 320ppm. That means the level has risen 80ppm in forty years. The dramatic change in carbon levels and the increase of carbon in the atmosphere is cause for concern. Because of the carbon levels, the world is experiencing an increase in severe weather that has resulted in many injuries and deaths. Major storms, hurricanes, and other natural disasters have been attributed to climate change.
Decreasing our collective carbon footprint is a way for us to begin working towards a safer and healthier planet. The burning of fossil fuels is one of the leading causes of carbon emissions. Switching to alternative energy, energy with no carbon emissions will have a widespread impact on the world. The air quality will become better due to less pollutants being released from burning of fossil fuels. For the same reason, water quality will also improve. Out of all the alternative energy solutions available, solar energy is one of the most viable options for home use.
States that get the most sunlight will be able to utilize solar energy the best but, no matter where you live, solar power can decrease your reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Even if you don’t receive record breaking sunshine in your state, solar panels will supplement the energy you get from electric or gas. So, even if you are not able to completely switch to solar power, you are still decreasing the amount of fossil fuels that are being burned. It will also increase the value of your home if you install it on your roof.
If you have the good fortune of living somewhere that gets a lot of sunlight then you can really get a bang for your buck. There can be days where your local energy provider will owe you money for the solar energy you fed back into the grid. This is because your solar panels were producing more energy than you needed.
Research your local solar providers to get your home or business assessed to see what solar panel would be best for you. There are grants and funding available if you qualify as well as government incentives. Make the switch to solar energy and invest in the future of your home and planet.
