Solar energy has become prevalent, with all indications showing that the alternative power source is likely to keep growing in popularity. However, it is surprising how little the public knows about solar energy and its role as a leading renewable clean energy source. Today, we’ll be delving into four facts residents of Sacramento, Brentwood, or San Jose might not know. For this and more information about solar installation, reach out to West Coast Solar, Inc!
Solar Energy Costs Have Been Steadily Falling
Previously, the cost of one watt of solar power used to be about $77, but according to the Solar Energy Industries Association and GTM Research Q3, the cost of a solar cell is now about $0.21 per watt. That is a 99% decline in energy cost since 1977! This trend is expected to continue as solar energy implementation becomes more feasible and support from the government continues.
Solar Power Is the Most Abundant Energy Source
The amount of solar energy hitting the earth per hour is enough to power the entire world for a year. As we realize the harm fossil fuels have wrought on the globe, governments are seeing the potential in harnessing solar energy. Having residential solar panels installed could help cut down carbon emissions by a considerable margin and make your home more energy efficient and environmentally-friendly.
California Leads in Solar Energy in the US
California gets about 14% of its power from solar. Interestingly, the solar power in the state is well distributed between small solar installations, rooftops, and large-scale plants. California is also the home of the largest solar thermal plant globally, which takes advantage of the large amounts of insolation from the Mojave Desert. The power went online in 2014 and generates 392 megawatts of electricity.
Solar Energy Offers Variety
If you want to get the benefits of solar, you have the option of getting panels installed on your roof. This may not be an option for those renting or living in apartments, but luckily, community solar projects are popping up all over the US. In community solar projects, you can be hooked up to a remote solar plant for a fee. By utilizing a community solar project, you would have the advantage of cheaper energy costs and being able to avoid using fossil fuels for energy in your home.
The sun is the largest source of energy in the solar system. As such, we should tap into that to avoid the catastrophic effects of burning fossil fuels for energy. Residents of Sacramento, San Jose, and Brentwood can benefit from solar installation services from West Coast Solar, Inc. easily! Get in touch with us today to learn more and get started!