Turning this question around to ask the true question, "How could Solar Energy not help the world"" might better impart solar energy's true significance.
I wonder if you knew that one kerosene lamp, commonly used as the only lighting equipment in developing countries and rural areas, gives off about one ton of carbon emissions in seven years. Not that big a deal, you may be about to say. However, when you consider the 2.5 billion people globally who have only kerosene, other fossil fuels, or animal dung for light and heat, the impact begins to sink in, yes?
Were you aware that the average U. S. citizen emits 27 tons (54,000 pounds) of greenhouse gases a year from using fossil fuels? Well, that's what it says at Nature's Conservancy. That's what I would call a large carbon footprint.
Solar energy can help the world...not only survive...but thrive...by serving basic needs while reducing environmental pollution. Solar energy for light, heat, and water is not only feasible, but vital for global survival and growth.
Many third world countries have excellent solar energy potential, but most of the people who live there are unaware of its power-providing potential. Or...it has either been unavailable or too expensive for them to consider. And... they are also the biggest market for renewable energy products, like solar systems.
Considering the sun provides an unlimited supply of renewable clean energy, anything and everything we can do to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and increase our reliance on solar energy will help the world. Every watt of power generated from the sun is pollution-free, while every watt of power generated from fossil fuel adds to the world's pollution.
Using solar energy is cost free...after paying for the initial cost of components and installation. There's no maintenance, and solar energy is silent, thereby reducing noise pollution as well.
While the average home is currently emitting about 18 tons of greenhouse gas into the environment every year using fossil fuels...solar energy emits no pollution.
Plus, one of the biggest advantages from a global perspective is the ability of solar energy to create self-sufficient home systems in those rural areas where conventional power distribution isn't economically feasible.
One of the most prominent organizations in bringing solar energy to the developing world is an organization called SELF, Solar Energy Light Fund, which describes itself as a "cutting edge, independent, not-for-profit organization that designs and implements sustainable energy solutions for enhancements in health, education, agriculture and economic growth in the developing world."
Partnered with government and non-governmental organizations, SELF has helped to bring electrification to villages and homes that had no existing resources, in more than 15 developing countries. Their work on numerous projects has helped provide solar energy powered electricity for irrigation and water systems, as well as health clinics and schools. In addition, this has produced income-generating work in poverty-stricken areas.
Solar panels currently have an average 25-year life with a 10-year payback. Thin film technologies are predicted to decrease cost, increase innovation for use, and flexibility. This market is exploding, especially in the area of thin film batteries.
Solar energy is gaining momentum worldwide. It's a technology that works. Investment in solar energy is growing, and as it becomes more and more widely adopted, economies of scale, and funding for new technological efficiencies will make it even more economical. As the price of gasoline and other fossil fuels continue to climb, there is no question more and more individuals, companies, and countries will move to solar energy as their source of power for home, vehicle and other energy needs.
We now know that solar energy works...and it is here to stay. Without a doubt, the faster we replace fossil fuel with solar energy as our primary energy source, the better off we...and our environment...will be.
Learn more about Solar Power benefits and other solar energy topics by stopping by Timothy Peters's site: www.HomeSolarPowerExplained.com/
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