Switch To Clean Energy
If you’re looking to take a step in your household with lots of impact, this is it. Electricity generated from fossil fuels accounts for 25 percent of the world's total emissions. So when you choose a clean energy plan for your home or use solar power, you’ll help cut carbon emissions.
Upgrading to renewable energy in our homes is an important step to phase out fossil fuels. The good news is that more people are making the switch, and solar power at home is on the rise around the world. Making this switch sends a clear signal to energy providers and politicians that we want a cleaner energy system.
tips
Check if your current utility provider offers a clean energy plan that you can switch to. If not, you could switch to another provider. It’s usually quite easy to do, and you don’t need to own your home to make the switch. Use a comparison site to help you choose from the different options available in your area - simply search “compare renewable energy suppliers” online.
If you own your home, consider installing solar panels. You’ll need a rooftop or plot of land nearby that gets enough sunshine. You might be surprised by just how much of your daily electricity needs you can meet with solar. To get an idea of your home’s solar potential, use the PVWatts Calculator or the Photovoltaic Geographical Information System. To find an accredited installer in your area, try a local directory like EnergySage (US), Solar Guide (UK) or ENF (EU), or search “compare solar installers” online. And remember to contact your local authorities about any government grants or payment schemes available.
If you’re not able to install your own solar panels, you could join a local solar project. To find community solar, search “community solar near me”.
benefits
Switching to a clean energy plan can be as simple as a phone call or a few clicks. But this simple act has big benefits. And as more of us choose clean energy, we’ll encourage the construction of more renewable energy projects like wind and solar farms. And when that happens, fossil fuels will be used less, reducing pollution and making the air we breathe and the water we drink cleaner and healthier.
The price of solar panels has dropped substantially over the years, so if you install solar, the energy savings you’ll enjoy could pay back the cost of installing them sooner than you think. You’ll also be protected from any increase in energy prices. If you’re not able to install solar panels, you may be able to save a little money each month with community solar.
Plus, research shows that when you install solar panels, your friends and neighbors are more likely to do the same. You could start the shift to solar in your area!
text reprinted with permission from Count Us In