The Environmental Benefits of Going Solar: Is It Safe?

When deciding to go solar, it can be hard to know the exact ins and outs of the industry. The scientific rhetoric can get confusing for homeowners and business owners alike. That’s why, at 1 Source Solar, our team is here to help you navigate the industry with ease.
Solar energy has been touted as the most environmentally friendly and economical way to utilize energy to power a property. The big question is, WHY is it good for the environment? And, is it safe? We’ve broken down four main reasons why going solar promotes a healthy environment and all of the benefits that come with it.
Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions & Dependence of Fossil Fuels
By using the sun’s natural light, there’s no need to break down chemicals or natural gases to produce energy. In fact, solar panels do all of that work themselves when the light hits them. Unlike other fossil fuels, converting sunlight into electricity produces no carbon dioxide or harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon dioxide is incredibly damaging to the earth’s atmosphere and cannot be fixed once the damage has been done.
Solar energy also does not require any dependence on fossil fuels. We gather fossil fuels from the earth, and there will be a time when they will run out. However, the sun is naturally occurring and has been for centuries with no signs of stopping. We can utilize solar energy far longer than we can with fossil fuels.
Decreases Air Pollution
Similar to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, solar energy also decreases harmful air pollutants that fossil fuel energy creates. Take gas, for example: Utilizing gas for electricity releases pollutants into the air such as sulfur dioxide or nitrogen oxides. These emissions can cause respiratory problems, smog, and illness among communities.
Promotes Energy Independence & Community Growth
Utilizing solar energy cuts down on the need for imported energy drastically. When a community commits to going solar, they are taking the full control that energy companies have away. Solar energy promotes independence, allowing the solar energy system owner to decide how and when they use their energy. Businesses, farmers, and homeowners can take advantage of going solar, knowing that they have full control over all of the energy that their system creates.
Poses No Risk To Safety or Health
Installing and maintaining solar has no safety or health risks. As mentioned above, solar energy does not emit any harmful gases into the atmosphere or pollution. Solar energy systems also don’t rely on dangerous processes such as combustion to create energy. Combustion is a process involving heat, fuel, light and oxygen to create energy and can cause a fire or explosion when not done correctly.
Unlike relying on fossil fuels, there’s also no need to worry about life-threatening, odorless gas leaks. Solar energy requires little maintenance beyond cleaning, operating without any chemicals or harmful substances.
Go Green, Save Money & Take Advantage of Sustainable Energy With 1 Source Solar
Solar energy can not only save you money on energy bills, but it can also create a greener environment around you and your community. There are many eco-friendly benefits to going solar such as no air pollution, energy independence, no dependency on fossil fuels, and more. Our solar energy systems can be customized to fit your property’s needs, based on your energy usage and space requirements.
Interested in learning more about how going solar is good for the environment? Contact our team! Serving the states of Iowa, Missouri and beyond—we are committed to providing you with the expertise you need.