India is all set to host World Environment Day 5th June,2019 to spread awareness among world citizens to take up the ownership and responsibility of sustaining and protecting the environment. While the focus this year is to #BeatPlasticPollution; Comorin Solar has been on a humble mission to promote the use of renewable energy and reduce dependency on traditional source of energy by providing solar solutions.
Shifting to solar from energy off the grid is a one-time investment that can cover up to 100% of your electricity usage as well as easily convert into a cost-saving and a means of earning, depending on the extent of your energy consumption vis-a-vis energy production. The incentives and government policies make for further ease of decision-making when it comes to opting for #GoingSolar.
However, financial incentives aside, one of the prime drivers for us to push for Solar is the long time positive impact on the environment.
This Environment Day, we would like to share some insights on how solar contribute substantially to the wellness of the environment and even to public health.
The Unconventional Vs Conventional
Around the world approximately 3 billion people rely on wood, coal, or animal waste for cooking and heating. According to the International Energy Outlook 2017 (IEO2017) Reference case, the total world energy consumption would rise from 575 quadrillion British thermal units (Btu) in 2015 to 736 quadrillion Btu in 2040, an increase of 28%. But, conventional sources of energy contribute to the production and release of a substantial amount of greenhouse gasses such as Carbon dioxide. This is responsible for heating up the earth’s atmosphere are causing serious harm to the environment and public health.
Energy production from natural gas emits 0.6 to 2 pounds of CO2 equivalent per kilowatt-hour. Coal emits between 1.4 and 3.6 pounds per kilowatt-hour. Thus, Solar Energy is a smart, quick and clean way to produce energy and protect the environment.
Extraction and Transportation
Extraction of fossil fuels via mining and drilling poses great threat to the environment. It can make local ecosystems susceptible to natural calamities and contaminate surrounding areas as well as groundwater by releasing toxic materials. They also produce toxins like mercury, lead and arsenic, which are harmful to humans. Mining also negatively impacts the ocean bed and affects marine ecosystems. Whereas, Solar energy is easily stored and transported without any harm to humans or environment.
Solar saves water
Conventional sources of energy require large quantities of water for drilling, refining, cooling and transporting. On average, coal or nuclear plants, draw about 20 to 60 gallons of water for every kilowatt-hour of electricity produced. This water is often left non-reusable due to high temperature and contamination from toxins. This means wastage of a lot fresh water that negatively impacts the environment and human health. Solar, on the other hand, does not require any water for energy production. Thus, it actively conserves freshwater sources across the globe.
Protecting People’s Health
Unlike conventional energy sources, Solar does not release any toxic chemicals in the atmosphere during electricity generation. It does not contaminate groundwater, land or cause atmospheric pollution. Thus, major health risks associated with non-renewable energy – respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems and radiation & cancer are largely avoided. Thus, solar not just benefits the environment, but also protects our health in general.
More reasons to #GoSolar
- It’s beneficial! A single, 4-kilowatt residential solar power system can offset nearly 200,000 pounds of carbon dioxide over 25 years which is equal to planting around 2,316 trees.
- Solar energy received by the earth in one hour is enough to power the entire world for one full year.
- It is a no-fuss energy production process. You only need panels!
- Solar requires less than 20% land as compared to coal or natural gas plants and petroleum refineries.
- And last but not the least, solar is long-lasting. Solar cells and panels used in converting sunlight to electricity have a lifespan of more than 25 years. This means, a one-time installation will last for decades to come.
Thus, in terms of energy solar makes the most sense. This Environment Day, do your bit for the earth, and pledge to #GoSolar.
For Solar projects in Thiruvananthapuram Kerala, On-Grid Solar Net Metering and Solar Panel Installation in Kerala, please contact us at comorinsolar@gmail.com or call us at +91-9633159523
Solar Energy Company in Trivandrum, Kerala
