When you think about going solar, the first things you think about are saving money and reducing your carbon footprint, right? While these are the two most common benefits of clean energy, they are not the only ones.
If you debate whether you should go green, renewable energy is a great place to start this journey. The best part about it is that while you are making life easier and cleaner for yourself, you benefit others in some surprising ways.
If you are interested in learning some of the unexpected benefits of renewable and solar energy, keep reading!
1. Job Creation
In the U.S., renewable energy companies employ around three times more people than the companies producing fossil fuels. This is one of the fastest-growing industries, which means more and more jobs are available. Jobs in renewable energy are also paying well above average minimum wage.
There is also a ripple effect in the industry created by the increase in demand for clean energy. Thus, companies in the renewable energy supply chain will also benefit from an increase in income.
2. Stable Energy Prices
While the upfront investment in renewable energy can be a bit steep, it is an affordable way to run your home and business in the long run. And it is getting less and less expensive as it becomes more popular. As it is affordable, it can help stabilize energy prices in the future.
For example, the price to install a solar-powered system with a top solar provider has dropped more than 70 percent in the last ten years. On the other hand, the prices of fossil fuels continue to climb, so it is a worthwhile investment.
3. Increases Home Value
Everyone is getting excited about using solar energy these days. Adding solar panels to your home increases its value by about 4 percent, according to studies.
There is some price variation based on your set-up and other things like location and environment, but in general, solar increases your home’s value.
4. Reliable Energy
Wind and solar are more reliable sources of energy than water or fossil fuels. Even when extreme weather conditions damage them, they still have a better chance of incurring less damage due to their placement and size.
Other forms of energy also depend on water during production, so water shortages can affect them all. With no sign of decreased energy usage, it is time to look at other sources.
5. Reduction in Water Pollution
When we think about pollution, we always think first of air pollution. But equally as damaging is water pollution. Because so many energy sources rely on running water, this can have devastating consequences if there are spills or the contaminated water is disposed of incorrectly.
Good, Clean Energy
These are only a few of the benefits of having clean energy, which is an investment for yourself and those around you. And isn’t something that saves time, money, and the environment worth looking into?
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Featured Image by Steppinstars on Pixabay
