The need for renewable energy is greater than ever and solar is one of the options leading the way when it comes to providing a cleaner, greener solution. Below, we take a look at 10 reasons to use solar.
- Limitless Resource
Solar harnesses the power of the sun to generate energy. Unlike fossil fuels, which are not in infinite supply, the sun is a limitless resource which makes solar a viable and sustainable long-term solution. The sun will provide more energy than we will ever require and is also a free resource.
- Reduces Carbon Footprint
Utilising solar will reduce your carbon footprint because it is an environmentally friendly energy source. It causes no pollution and will not emit any greenhouse gases. If the UK are going to meet the government’s target of net zero by 2050, solar will play an important role.
- Very Accessible
The sun is a source of energy which is accessible to everyone throughout the world. Furthermore, for individuals, businesses, and local authorities, solar is more accessible than other renewable energy sources like wind as it offers a greater amount of flexibility in the way it can be used (which we look at next).
- Has Lots Of Different Uses
One of the many advantages of solar is its suitability for use in various applications. This is down to the development of solar products to meet lots of requirements. Solar can be used for electricity, heating, water heating, ventilation, lighting and automation.
- Improves Grid Security & Increases Energy Independence
With a greater use of solar, there will be less pressure on the grid leading to fewer blackouts and burnouts. By generating your own energy through solar this will also provide you with a greater level of independence and control. Products like the Flex Solar Module provides an off-grid, fully integrated solution which can be used on motor homes, caravans, boats and outbuildings.
- More Effective Than Ever
Technological advancements mean that solar products are capturing more of the sun’s rays than ever before. Solar still falls behind wind when it comes to how much energy it can produce but this gap is predicted to close significantly in the next few years as solar products continue to become more effective at producing energy generated from the sun.
- Creates Jobs And Boosts UK Economy
As more people have turned to solar energy, this has led to the creation of thousands of jobs in the industry and continued economic growth within this sector. Experts believe the UK solar industry could treble in size over the next five years, increasing capacity to 40GW by 2030.
- Products Are Affordable To Buy And Install
The cost of solar has fallen dramatically over the past ten years. Both the products themselves and price of installation is a lot more affordable than it was back then. This has made it a more viable option for businesses and individuals.
- Low Operation Costs
In terms of the operation costs, solar is a lot more affordable than other forms of energy generation. The photovoltaic process which turns solar into electricity doesn’t require the use of fuel and has no variable costs.
- Low Maintenance
Apart from cleaning, which can sometimes be achieved through an automated system, solar modules and panels do not require a lot of maintenance. There are also specialist products available for the cleaning process.