Within a decade, the US solar sector grew significantly, going from 2.5 gigawatts of capacity in 2010 to over 81 gigawatts by the middle of 2020. Though not all states have accepted solar energy equally, California presently accounts for over 30% of all US solar generation. Moreover, California possessed more than half of the nation’s installed capacity before other states prioritized solar energy.
Solar energy has increased significantly in California due to a variety of causes. High kilowatt-hour pricing, the state’s plentiful sunlight, and advantageous laws strengthen the business case for adopting solar.
Below are the top 10 reasons for installing solar panels
1. Solar Policy and Incentive Programs
The California solar sector has benefited from the state’s affluent sunlight and pricey power. However the state has also passed legislation that supports solar energy, and there are various financing choices available.
For example, with a target of 100% carbon-free power by 2045, California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard is among the most ambitious in the US. A strong RPS supports policies that promote clean energy, such as solar power, through laws and incentive schemes.
2. Cleaner environment and obtaining the “green” badge for a building or company
The ecology is not negatively impacted by solar energy. There are no greenhouse gases released. Traditional energy sources like fossil fuels are notorious for their atmospheric carbon emissions. Carbon buildup in the atmosphere has negative health impacts on those who breathe it in, in addition to the harm it does to the ozone layer. Additionally, fossil fuels have a significant role in global warming. There are seldom any negative effects on the environment from solar energy. Additionally, a clean environment implies better living conditions for the next generation, which depends on it for life and growth. In the end, using solar energy helps people leave a smaller carbon imprint and ensures a cleaner planet.
3. Impact of PG&E’s bankruptcy on power outage prevention
You may reduce your dependency on the grid by putting solar panels on your roof and producing your electricity. You may ensure adequate electricity even if a power outage by including a solar battery in your solar energy system. The PG&E bankruptcy’s long-lasting, extensive effects were one of the top stories of 2019.
Due to this incident, PG&E made substantial operational changes and planned power outages ahead of time for the fire season. You may make sure you have electricity even if there is an outage, which is happening increasingly frequently, by installing a solar battery backup.
4. Efficiency in the generation and use of electricity
Since grid electricity is delivered from electric plants to residences or business structures, it frequently experiences power outages. Even hydroelectricity, another green energy source, is susceptible to transmission interruptions. As long as there is enough sunlight, solar-powered devices are completely efficient when it comes to transmission. Given that the solar panels and solar cells used to generate energy are situated on rooftops, there is no need to go any distance to transmit solar electricity. This reduces the possibility of transmission-related energy disruptions.
5. Solar Incentives and Rebates
California provides several incentives to stimulate solar energy use by homeowners and businesses. The Investment Tax Credit (ITC), often known as the Solar Federal Income Tax Credit and the main financial incentive still accessible to Californians. According to the ITC, qualifying individuals and companies who switch on their solar energy system in 2020 are entitled to a federal income tax credit of the system’s cost.
6. Job creation
Compared to other formerly popular sources of energy like coal or fossil fuels, the solar business has been able to hire more workers. The solar system must be installed for it to function. For those installing solar panels in houses and business buildings, this translates into job prospects. As a result, it is advantageous for business owners and homeowners since every time they hire a firm to install a solar system, jobs are created.
7. In California, installation is easy to do
Solar energy is a rising force in the residential renewable energy sector. Thin film solar panels have been improving their efficiency and quality in California. As a result, they are becoming more competitive with traditional solar panels made from mono or polycrystalline silicon. The advantage of thin film is that they are flexible and can be applied over diverse surfaces at different angles. Hence it is easy to install in the homes of California.
8. Usage of vacant land
As long as there is enough sunshine, solar energy can be produced everywhere on the planet. In addition, there are many millions of acres of land that are worthless for farming or raising livestock. Solar farms can be built on such terrain.
These are areas created specifically for the installation of solar panels needed for the large-scale generation of solar energy. In Britain, where there is a 45-acre farm that can power more than 2,500 households, it has been done before. This implies that solar energy may be utilized to generate electricity on terrain that would otherwise be unusable for farming, such as deserts with abundant sunshine.
9. Solar-powered Technology is Reliable, Effective, and Durable
The cost of solar technologies in California is dropping steadily. You end up getting results that get better and better. All of that is currently available. Additionally, this form of energy is sustainable and will meet your demands for a very long time, unlike other forms. Solar technology gives stability, extremely few maintenance requirements, and the option to always focus on sustainability. It’s also very crucial to consider that solar technology requires a cheap initial cost.
10. It is a renewable energy source.
Coal and fossil fuels will eventually run out of energy. This is so because the amount of these non-renewable energy sources used corresponds directly to the amount of those resources left in the earth’s crust. But in the case of solar energy, the sun’s permanent existence ensures that there is a never-ending supply of solar energy. Therefore, solar energy is a desirable source of energy for both houses and businesses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, adopting a solar panel system in California presents numerous compelling benefits. From substantial cost savings and increased property value to significant environmental impact and energy independence, solar energy stands out as a smart investment for homeowners. With California’s abundant sunshine, supportive government incentives, and the growing need for sustainable energy solutions, there’s never been a better time to make the switch. Embrace the future of energy by choosing solar, and enjoy the myriad advantages it brings to your home, finances, and the planet.