How Does Solar Energy Help the Environment?

Solar energy helps the environment by doing more than just reducing carbon emissions. 

Did you know that Colorado is the 10th biggest consumer of solar power in the United States? Here in Denver, homeowners are increasingly aware of their impact on the environment, and solar panel systems are an instant solution to their sustainability concerns. Here are three ways solar panels benefit the environment.

1. Solar Energy Reduces Water Pollution

In thermoelectric plants, coal, natural gas, oil and nuclear energy require cooling — and this requires vast amounts of water. But there’s a problem: 72 percent of water pollution comes from coal-fired power plants, and toxic pollution is linked to cancer, heart attacks and neurological damage. Thankfully, there’s a solution.

Generating energy from renewable sources instead of fossil fuels can improve public health and river ecosystems. Solar energy doesn’t pollute local water resources, because solar photovoltaic cells don’t rely on water to generate power. The result? Cleaner drinking water for your whole family without wasting energy.

2. Solar Energy Reduces Air Pollution

31 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States comes from electricity production — a shocking statistic, especially when methane and carbon dioxide emissions are major contributors to global warming. Greenhouse gases reduce air quality and increase weather extremes. Using solar energy systems can mitigate some of the damage, as Denver solar panels don’t produce any greenhouse gasses when generating electricity.

3. Solar Energy Reduces Hazardous Waste

More than 400 million tons of hazardous waste is produced every year, according to the United Nations Environmental Program; however, not all waste is thrown away safely. In Canada, for example, 30 percent of waste producers fail to meet government guidelines for correct disposal procedures. This is worrying: Nuclear fission products, in particular, continue to be radioactive for thousands of years, meaning they could have a detrimental effect on human health and the environment. Unlike traditional energy sources, solar power doesn’t rely on fuel to generate electricity, eliminating the problem of radioactive waste storage and fuel transportation.

4. What can you do to promote solar power?

Want to reduce your carbon footprint? Solar is a renewable, sustainable form of energy that can lessen your environmental impact and save you lots of money in the process. We know switching to solar is a big decision but our goal is to make it as easy as possible. Read our first-time buyer’s guide to solar energy. It’s free and full of need-to-know advice.

Serious about solar energy? Find out how many solar panels your home needs or read answers to the most frequently asked questions about solar energy.