Solar Energy: Earth’s Future

Imagine our planet with clean, fresh air. No pollution throughout our whole world. This image is a possibility, using solar energy. Solar energy is the harnessing of the sun’s energy and converting it into energy that we can use to accomplish tasks. Everybody should get involved in solar energy because it helps improve our environment, is efficient in terms of saving money and time, and helps us prepare for the living of future generations.

Solar energy is becoming more popular all over the world. There are primarily two technologies for converting solar energy to electricity. Solar thermal-electric power plants use mirrors to gather solar radiation and focus it on a small area to produce high temperatures. Photovoltaic cells, when struck by light, release electrons that combine into modules and later arrays. Solar energy is very abundant. The surface of the earth receives 120,000 terawatts of solar radiation (sunlight) – 20,000 times more power than what is needed to supply our entire world. Not only is solar energy abundant, but it is also sustainable (Energy Informative.) Sustainable energy sources meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. In other words, solar energy is sustainable because there is no way we can over-consume. It makes sense to use solar energy because it not only helps our current society, but plans for the condition of future societies as well.

Solar energy is saving homeowners and companies hundreds and even thousands of dollars. According to “One Block Off the Grid,” adding solar panels to your home can give you monthly savings of well above $100 in a number of states. Hawaii residents save on average $64,000 after using solar energy for two years. “As for the companies, recently, Malaysia Airports Holding Berhad and Sun Edison announced the launch of Malaysia’s first airport solar power system at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The 19 megawatt direct current instillation combines group-mount, parking canopy and roof-top systems to maximize electricity savings and return on investment while minimizing the use of space. The solar power installation is expected to save the airport approximately $750,000 annually (PR Newswire).” Solar energy continues to improve the economy and life of many homeowners and companies.

We have come to agreement that one day, fossil fuels will run out. We will then need another way to get energy: Solar energy is that solution. Why? Well first off, solar energy is renewable. We cannot run out of it, as opposed to non-renewable energy sources such as fossil fuels, coal, and nuclear. Solar energy is also environmental friendly. Harnessing the sun’s rays and converting them into energy does not cause pollution. As we continue polluting our environment using non-renewable resources, solar energy becomes increasingly appealing. It is the right thing to get involve in solar energy because we have a duty to help our future generations, and we have a duty to protect and improve our environments.

Even though solar energy is a relatively new and upcoming trend, it does have its disadvantages. Solar energy is an intermittent energy source. It is difficult to predict overcast days and access to sunlight is limited at certain times of day. Although this is true, solar energy is still one of the most efficient energy sources we currently have. It is also quite expensive to install panels and store the energy from the sun. However, in the long run, solar energy users will save more than enough energy to earn their money back. We may not be able to use it all the time, but when we can, solar energy saves us time, money, and pollution.

In conclusion, solar energy is becoming more popular due to its sustainability and its abundance. It continues to be efficient, saving users’ time and money. We have a duty to help our future generations and a duty to protect/improve our environments. Solar energy helps improve our environment, is efficient, and helps us prepare for the living of future generations. Everyone, you included, should get involved in solar energy as soon as possible.

Works Cited
“Solar Energy.” International Encyclopedia of the Social Sciences. Ed. William A. Darity, Jr. 2nd ed. Vol. 8. Detroit: Macmillan Reference USA, 2008. 22-23. U.S. History In Context. Web. 4 Feb. 2014. “Solar
Energy.” Gale Student Resources in Context. Detroit: Gale, 2010. Student Resources in Context. Web. 4 Feb. 2014. “Solar Power To Save Kuala Lumpur International 2.1 Million RM Per Year In Energy Costs.” Solar Power To Save Kuala Lumpur International 2.1 Million… N.p.,n.d. Web. 04 Feb. 2014. “Solar Energy Pros and Cons.” Energy Informative. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Feb. 2014.