The popularity of alternative energy sources has been on the rise in recent years, and for good reason. Alternative power sources like solar power have come a long way since their invention. Modern systems now offer reliable and secure power at economically sensible price points. At the same time, the use of alternative and renewable sources of energy is a great way to “go green” and help the environment. Sources like solar power are clean, renewable, and indefinite sources of energy.
The idea of alternative energy has been around since the dawn of mankind, as an economic and natural solution to the need for light and energy. Even early civilizations knew the value of sources like solar power. The ancient Greeks built their homes and buildings to face the southern horizon in order to maximize the exposure to the sun’s light and warmth, and the Romans built skylights and high windows for the same purpose. Legends say that Archimedes used concentrated light from the sun, reflected off of polished shields, to repel an invading Roman fleet. Clearly the amazing power of the sun has always been one of man’s most treasured resources.
Nowadays, the alternative power industry is booming. The high price of fossil fuels, dependence on foreign oil sources, and the knowledge that traditional energy sources are finite and can’t be replenished once they are used has spurred the alternative power industry forward. It’s clear there will come a day when there is no more refinable coal or oil sources for us to mine. And since fossil fuels take millions of years to generate a usable energy source, it’s become clear that our current power systems will someday be obsolete. Moreover, as we realize the negative impact that our excavation and usage of fossil fuels has on the environment–from the emission of toxic greenhouse gases to the deforestation and scarring of the earth required by mining–we have begun to see the impact of our actions on the environment and recognize our responsibility to seek an alternative, more elegant method to power.
That is why today, more and more people recognize the need for clean, cost-effective, renewable sources of energy. Even as new sources, such as biodiesel, are discovered and researched, older techniques like solar, wind, and tidal energy are being refined and improved.
Solar energy now has a wide range of applications and is capable of providing amenities from solar electricity and solar cooking, to solar water heating and solar space heating. New systems can be tied into your existing utility connection; your electric meter will turn backwards when the sun shines.
Not only is it useful, it helps the environment. In 35 years, a 10kW system will reduce CO2 emissions as much as planting 1450 trees, and will produce as much energy as 580,000 pounds of coal. And at the end of its life cycle, a solar system’s parts and materials will be recyclable.
And alternative sources are cost-effective. Given the rising cost of fossil fuels, solar power systems are paying for themselves faster than ever in comparison. You may even be eligible for legal incentives like rebates and tax deductions as a reward for responsible energy use. In many instances, these rebates will pay for the majority of a solar power system’s installation, up to 50% of the total cost. Incentives vary by state and area.
The benefits of alternative energy are clear. Clean, cheap, renewable power. Reduced greenhouse gas production. Energy independence. An investment in our future. Turn your home or business on to solar power today!