It’s time to think about the future, and one aspect of that involves energy sources.
In the US, fossil fuel remains the most used primary energy source. While renewable energy is classified as a primary energy source, consumption of it takes up only 11 percent of the overall primary energy usage.
With campaigns to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, renewable energy sources have yet again taken the spotlight in today’s energy market.
- Renewable Energy is Cheaper – and Will Become Cheaper in the Coming Years
The general thought about renewable energy often revolves around it being too expensive. But, that’s not the case today.
More and more companies are offering technologies that allow the public to enjoy renewable energy at an affordable rate. For instance, the costs of installing solar panels have dropped more than 70 percent between 2010 and 2017. As renewable technologies continue to mature, they become more competitive, cheaper, and more available.
Fossil fuel costs, on the other hand, are more prone to fluctuations due to global demands. So, if you are to choose between fossil fuel and renewable energy, the latter remains the more viable option.
- Incentives are Available for Renewable Energy Usage
Renewable energy technologies and projects are a great way to receive financial incentives, cash rebates, and tax deductions. Different states provide a range of programs to support and subsidize the installation of energy-efficient equipment to homeowners.
For instance, installing solar power panels in Salt Lake City can provide homeowners with federal and state incentives. In New Jersey, homeowners with installations or modifications that fall under energy conservation measures are eligible for a Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion.
- Focus on Improving Public and Environmental Health
Fossil fuel emits air pollutants that not only affect the environment, but also the health of the public. Oil drilling, for instance, contributes to methane production – a greenhouse gas that’s more potent than carbon dioxide. This gas can pose a serious health hazard and also contribute to global warming.
Renewable energy sources don’t produce pollutants or any particulate matter that affect the environment. Many forms of renewable energy require little to no water, which means they don’t pollute water sources as fossil fuel production does.
- Renewable Energy Plays a Role in Economic Development
When people think of renewable energy, the first thing that comes to mind is the environmental benefits it brings. What they don’t realize is the economic impact of renewable energy.
In the US, there is a significant increase in renewable energy jobs. This provides more opportunities for stable and high-wage employment among blue-collar workers. As states prioritize clean energy consumption, demands for building wind turbines and solar panels are also growing. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics also indicates solar installers as one of the fastest-growing occupations between 2018 and 2028.
Ready to Go Clean and Green?
Renewable energy may be one of the solutions this generation needs from the detrimental effects of climate change. In many ways, it pays to go green. If you are still apprehensive, feel free to do your own research. It is surprising, given the many documentaries out there, how some people are ignoring the fact that it is time that humans take better care and focus on rebuilding the earth. Shifting to renewable energy is one thing that can definitely help.
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