As the demand for renewable energy increases, the residential solar energy industry continues to grow at a rate of over 12% annually. If you are in the process of considering an installation for your home, you’ll have several questions to ask. “Is solar energy renewable?” should be at the top of your agenda.
We have all been guilty of falling for marketing promises that aren’t quite 100% accurate. (I know I am not the only one who has fallen for “low fat” gimmicks in the grocery store.) So, is solar energy renewable, and will it actually make a difference to your carbon footprint? Here’s all you need to know.
What Does Renewable Energy Truly Mean?
Before determining whether a solar panel system is a good choice for your home or business, you must first understand the true definition of renewable energy.
The basic definition of renewable energy is energy that comes from a source that is not depleted when used. For a more detailed clarity, renewable energy should;
- Be replenished at a higher rate than it is consumed
- Result in a net zero carbon emission (cancel out any carbon produced)
- Have the potential to last indefinitely (even if that means updating some facilities)
To truly analyze whether solar energy is renewable, you must consider the entire life cycle. This should cover the manufacturing process, the energy generated by the system, and the product lifespan.
Is Solar Energy Renewable?
Even at a glance, it should be clear that solar energy fits the basic definition of renewable energy as the energy generated from sunlight is not depleted. But can solar energy truly be considered renewable, and will an advanced system truly help protect the planet over its lifespan? Let’s take a look at the facts:
Fact #1. The Interception Rate Is 10,000x Greater Than Consumption
Solar energy is intercepted by Earth at a rate that is 10,000 times greater than human consumption rates. In other words, with the right infrastructure in place, we could produce more than enough energy to satisfy our demands. So, we would never run out of energy.
This is a vastly different result to other energy sources, such as fossil fuels. They take millions of years to form, meaning human consumption demands will eventually outweigh the supply. When considering whether solar is a renewable source that could be used indefinitely, the answer is an emphatic yes.
Fact #2. Carbon Emissions In Manufacturing Are Quite Low
The operation of generating renewable energy through solar does not cause carbon emissions, but manufacturing the equipment does. Thankfully, the manufacturing processes have become a lot greener in recent years. In most cases, manufacturing emissions are offset in 1-4 years.
You can reduce the emissions further by choosing a local solar energy expert to complete the installation. Following installation, you should be set for decades of clean energy production. After offsetting the manufacturing emissions in the initial period, all subsequent energy generation protects the planet.
Fact #3. Modern Solar Energy Systems Last 25+ Years
Even if it takes four years to offset the manufacturing emissions, solar panels will easily compensate for this during their lifespan. Modern solutions are known to last for 25 years or longer, especially when you complete basic maintenance. It also reduces long-term manufacturing emissions as you’ll need fewer replacements.
Solar energy now contributes more than 5% of all global electricity generation. Its cost-effectiveness and scalability ensure that it will continue to thrive in the coming years. It should also be noted that photovoltaic panels are recyclable, which adds to their sustainability.
Fact #4: Solar Capacity Grows At 22% Annually
The shift towards solar as a truly renewable energy source has seen an annual capacity growth of 22% over the past decade or so. This means that the reliance on other energy sources is declining on a national level. Meanwhile, individual consumers have seen new possibilities emerge in the process.
Systems are now more compact and powerful than ever, meaning you can generate more energy without increasing the carbon emissions during manufacturing. Increased energy production also means that electricity demands are met while energy bills are reduced further.
Fact #5: Solar Energy Can Be Stored For Later Use
Photovoltaic panels generate electricity from sunlight to be used in multiple applications including heating, cooling, lighting, and powering appliances. However, it could be argued that renewable energy isn’t truly renewable if it does not cover your demands on a 24/7 basis.
The benefits of renewable energy are limited if you have to switch to fossil fuels and other sources once the sun goes down. Thankfully, a solar battery bank can store excess energy generated throughout the day. This can then be used throughout the night. Aside from supporting truly renewable energy usage, it removes your reliance on the grid.
The Final Word
Is solar energy renewable throughout a lifecycle that covers manufacturing as well as operation? Absolutely.
If you’re ready to embrace the power of solar, get in touch with our experts today.
