About 173,000 terawatts of solar energy strike the Earth at any given time which is more than 10,000 times the world’s total energy needs. It is a key solution in combating the current climate crisis and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.

1. What Is Solar Energy and Solar Panels

The Sun is a natural nuclear reactor. It releases tiny packets of energy called photons and every hour, enough photons arrive to our planet as the Sun bathes the Earth to generate enough solar energy to satisfy global energy needs for an entire year, theoretically speaking. Solar energy is the energy produced by the Sun’s light called the photovoltaic energy and its warmth which is referred to as solar thermal for the generation of electricity or the production of heat. It is inexhaustible and renewable, and it can be harnessed using panels and mirrors.

Solar panels are a way to capture that energy and turn it into electricity to power our homes and businesses. Currently photovoltaic power accounts for only five-tenths of one percent of the energy consumed in the US, but technology is improving and so is our ability to harness this abundant energy source, while making it more affordable.

Although the perfect conditions for producing solar energy include a clear sunny day, solar panels are actually more efficient in cold weather and they still get the job done on a cloudy day, just like we get sunburned even when we can’t see the sun from the clouds.

2. Benefits of Solar Panels

No matter where you live, solar energy can be an excellent investment besides being a great way to help combat climate change. It provides your home with electricity and heat without harming the environment.

It saves you money

Exactly how much you’ll save and how quickly you’ll get a return on your investment depends on many factors like the cost of electricity, solar incentives available and the quality of your solar panels. Also, the higher your energy usage, the more you’ll save by using solar energy to power your home through a lowered Ohio Edison energy bill. Even if you think of selling your home and won’t be there to wait for these savings to come to fruition, you will get your return through an increased resale value.

It does not pollute the environment

Solar energy does not emit toxic substances or contaminants into the air. It is 100% clean which means it does not generate waste or emit greenhouse gases in the energy generation processes, which is why it is considered as the most viable solution to prevent environmental degradation.

It makes you more independent

Electricity prices rise every year. The best way to protect yourself is by not being reliant on your electricity provider. Solar energy is inexhaustible, so we don’t have to worry about depleting it.

3. How To Budget and Save for Your Solar Panels

With that being said, solar panels don’t come cheap, although the cost of solar installation has dropped more than 70 percent since 2010. It is still a significant investment that needs to be factored in with your budget so the sooner you start saving money for it, the better.

Eliminate debt

When debt is present, it is robbing you of your income and making it impossible to save money. Choose the debt repayment method that works for you and commit to it.

Adopt energy-efficient habits

We often forget that simple actions can make a big difference such as unplugging devices when they are not in use to avoid phantom loads and turning of the lights when you leave the room or just enjoy looking at the stars instead of looking at your TV.

Be a smart shopper

The internet has made it so easy to compare prices these days and make sure you are getting the best deal. From your utility and internet providers to any purchase you make, ask for discounts and get the most affordable price or rate.

Challenge yourself

How about not spending money on nonessential items for a month? You could be surprised how quickly money can add up if you don’t get a takeaway latte every morning. These kind of ‘spending freeze’ challenges help us remember that money does not control us and that we are the ones in control.

Takeaway

Investing in solar panels means investing in a brighter future as letting the sunshine in your home will provide you with many benefits.