The world needs energy to operate. Without it, people wouldn't be able to drive, have electricity in their homes, run businesses, move freight or manufacture products. It seems that the most convenient way to supply this energy is by burning fossil fuels. However, the burning of fossil fuels has set off a chain reaction within the environment. Unclean and non-renewable energy sources from coal, oil and natural gas emit smoke when burned. As a result, people inhale these harmful gases and may experience health problems. Not to mention, the greenhouse gases fossil fuels emit have a warming effect on the earth, which produces adverse affects all its own, such as extreme weather events and ice melt.

Going solar can combat these issues. Energy from the sun is cleaner and easier on the environment. 

1. Curbs Pollution

Solar energy can decrease air pollution, which can prevent hundreds of billions of dollars in health and environmental damages. Unlike fossil fuels that produce a lot of air pollutants, solar energy is more beneficial for the environment. That's because the energy is generated from the sun, a natural and sustainable resource. By purchasing solar panels and installing them on your roof, you can help reduce air pollution with cleaner energy that comes from the sun.

2. Conserves Water

Compared to other energy sources, like hydropower and nuclear energy, solar energy doesn't use water to produce electricity. For example, with hydropower, in order to generate energy from water, a dam needs to be built to control the water flow and electricity production. The dam holds back the water to create potential energy. Once the potential energy builds up, it creates kinetic energy that makes the water move. As a result, the water has built enough momentum to have a high velocity down the stream. This is what generates energy and electricity.

Furthermore, natural gas and coal-fired facilities require massive amounts of water for cooling purposes. However, the sun requires none of this to radiate energy down to the earth.

Therefore, installing solar panels in large cities such as Oakland helps save water. In fact, according to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, solar energy systems could help drop water consumption in at least 36 states. Solar energy has little to no impact on the water supply. Therefore, it doesn't strain the local water supply by competing with agriculture, drinking systems and other vital water needs.

3. Fights Climate Change

As pollutants and constant CO2 emissions fill the air, climate change starts to take effect. The high carbon count causes the earth to retain more heat from the sun. This causes weather patterns all over the world to become more sudden and volatile. Some places in the world may become warmer, while other parts of the world cool off. To stem the tide of climate change, people need to use more renewable energy. Solar energy is a form of renewable energy that can prevent the effects of climate change. It can help reduce CO2 emissions and release fewer pollutants into the air. 

4. Reduces Strain on Nonrenewable Energy Sources

As the global population continues to grow, nonrenewable energy sources, like coal, oil and natural gas will continue to deplete. Solar energy can reduce the dependence on these resources. In fact, the sun is the earth's most abundant resource, so why not take advantage of it?

5. Improves Health in the Long Run

Because solar energy results in very few air pollutants, it can result in better health outcomes over time. Other energy sources emit high amounts of harmful gases, like nitrous oxides, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter emissions. Long-time exposure to these particles can cause health problems. However, by switching to solar energy, you can combat these issues by preventing unnecessary healthcare costs and saving thousands of lives.

Help your environment and those who live in it by going solar. By doing so, you'll be contributing to the greater good.