Using Solar Power to Decrease Global Warming

From LoveToKnow GreenLiving
Many people wonder whether using solar power to decrease global warming is a realistic prospect.

What is Solar Power?

Solar power is the means of harnessing sunlight to create electrical power. The technology has been in existence for many years. In fact, solar power was used to heat water in the United States as early as the start of the 20th century. Solar heated water systems were rising in popularity until the 1920s, although after this time more reliable conventional heating fuels started to slowly replace them.

Solar panels provide a renewable and sustainable energy source.

Solar power works in one of two ways -- either as a direct energy source to provide light and heat, for instance heating water directly, or by producing energy that is stored for later use.

Will Using Solar Power to Decrease Global Warming Work?

Any form of power generation which decreases the call on the world’s natural resources, whilst reducing emissions, will have a long term benefit. The traditional ways of producing power have all had a negative effect on the environment. Solar power, being totally renewable, sustainable and without emissions will certainly help slow down global warming and its negative effects.

One of the key ways that solar power will help the environment is by using it as a replacement for some electricity sources. While using 100% solar power might not always be a viable alternative to conventionally produced electricity, it will certainly work well as a back up and support. This will decrease our dependency on power produced by traditional methods.

Solar Electricity from Photovoltaic Panels (PV)

When many people think of solar power, they think of the solar panels which can be seen on some roof tops and in fields which collect sunlight. The panels contain photovoltaic cells that produce electricity. This energy is then stored and used during the day. There are many companies which specialize in this type of equipment.

This technology is widely used, such as solar powered calculators, watches and other items being powered in this way. Additionally, many modern appliances use solar power as a back up or as their main power supply. For instance, burglar alarms often employ a solar powered back up battery.

The energy which is derived from solar panels can be used for lighting, heating and any other way that electricity from traditional sources is used. Solar power is also an extremely good alternative for garden lighting and fountains, decreasing the need to run power cables into the garden.

Benefits of Solar Power
  • The energy source is completely sustainable; therefore once the solar technology has been manufactured and purchased, there is no further drain on the world's resources.
  • There are no unpleasant or harmful emissions which might cause long term problems to the environment.
  • The energy produced is free, meaning that the cost savings over time will outweigh the initial outlay.
  • Modern technologies mean that solar power is more reliable now than older systems, which some people reported as unreliable and inefficient.
  • Modern manufacturing methods have also meant that the cost of equipment has fallen, making solar power a more financially viable alternative to conventional power sources.
  • Solar power is clean and quiet. Fossil fuel powered generators are noisy and dirty, while a solar panel producing energy is silent.

Other Ways to Help Reduce or Slow Down Global Warming

Using solar power to decrease global warming is one option, however there are many other ways to look at reducing harmful emissions. The carbon emitted by cars makes a significant contribution to our individual carbon footprints. Considering a hybrid car which uses alternative fuel sources could also have wider reaching benefits.

Reducing the amount of carbon emitted in our homes can be as simple as checking that the home is well insulated so that heat is not lost during the colder months. This reduces the amount of heat needed to heat the property, making the house more energy efficient. Changing light bulbs to compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs will save energy and also money as these light bulbs last longer than traditional bulbs.

Other Green Power Alternatives

If solar power isn’t for you, then perhaps consider wind or water generated power. The Locust Ridge Wind Farm in Pennsylvania is an excellent example of a wind farm providing power to over 6,500 homes. There are an increasing number of alternative options available for someone looking to go green.

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Comments

Thank you for your comment, John, you raise some interesting points.

-- Contributed by: K Pullen

Why doesn't it seem there is any discussion on the fact that solar power is going to INCREASE global warming?? If CO2 is a demon because it traps heat, then why isn't solar the devil incarnate? Solar panels, heat collectors, solar power generation installations all TRAP SOLAR HEAT and convert it to electricity, or even to heat directly. All efforts are being made to improve the efficiency of these processes, thereby exacerbating the problem! If we're worried about trapping more heat on earth, then solar is a BAD IDEA. All electricity eventually is converted to heat energy. Name a device that doesn't do that! Through direct inefficiency, friction, radiation, or any other means, electricity eventually trickles down into the lowest form of energy; heat. And that stays on earth. Since CO2 is particularly ineffective at trapping heat, and solar collectors are VERY effective, this needs to become a consideration, and soon. California is even discussing limiting the number and types of BLACK SURFACES! How the heck does that jive with increasing solar dependency? I need someone to make a compelling scientific argument that I'm wrong here. Thanks, John

-- Contributed by: John Logan

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