The Potential Of Solar Power

It may come as a surprise to some, but solar power is by far the largest source of energy that humanity has access to.

There are many graphics that have been produced to highlight this fact, but none has done the job of expressing this idea as well as the graphic made by Richard Perez, a Research Professor at the University of Albany’s Atmospheric Sciences Research Center. Here is the image –

solar-energy-potential


According to the graphic, the Earth receives about 23,000 terawatts of energy per year from the sun. This is an astounding amount of energy compared to the 16 terawatts that the world currently uses. Capturing a tenth of one percent of this energy would give us more than we would need.

It’s important to note that the four larger circles, representing the polluting and non-renewable sources of energy (coal, uranium, petroleum, and natural gas), are total recoverable amounts. The numbers associated with these four sources of energy will eventually decline, as opposed to the yearly guarantee of 23,000 terawatts that we receive from the sun every year.

The good news is that word is getting out to the powers that be that solar is now as affordable, if not cheaper than conventional energy sources. “Grid Parity” has been a long time coming, but it’s finally here. In order for solar to finally catch up and surpass other energy sources, across the board implementation must occur. Utility scale, commercial, and residential solar will soon grow at exponential rates.

It’s fitting that this first post is about potential. The potential that homeowners have to do their part to speed up the solar revolution is very exciting. I am happy to do my part to help make sure homeowners receive the most cost effective solar solutions possible.

Here’s to the future! It looks bright from here.

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5 Responses to The Potential Of Solar Power

  1. Pingback: The Potential of Solar Energy | Green Living Green Living

  2. sir shove says:

    In conclusion, solar power has immense potential to revolutionize the energy industry and address the pressing issues of climate change and energy security. With advancements in technology and decreasing costs, solar power has become increasingly accessible and efficient. It offers a clean, renewable, and abundant source of energy that can be harnessed in various ways. Solar power has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create jobs, and provide sustainable energy solutions for both developed and developing countries. As governments, businesses, and individuals continue to invest in solar power, it is evident that this renewable energy source will play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future.

  3. force says:

    In conclusion, solar power has immense potential as a renewable energy source. Its ability to harness the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity offers numerous benefits, including reduced reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and long-term cost savings. With advancements in technology and increasing affordability, solar power is becoming more accessible to individuals and businesses alike. As we continue to invest in solar power infrastructure and research, we can unlock its full potential and create a sustainable future for generations to come.

  4. Houston says:

    In conclusion, solar power has immense potential as a sustainable and renewable energy source. With advancements in technology and decreasing costs, solar power has become increasingly accessible and efficient. It offers numerous benefits such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing reliance on fossil fuels, and providing energy independence. Additionally, solar power can be harnessed in various applications, from residential rooftops to large-scale power plants. As the world seeks to transition to clean energy sources, solar power stands out as a promising solution that can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

  5. Homerun Diva says:

    In conclusion, solar power has immense potential to transform the way we generate and consume energy. With advancements in technology and decreasing costs, solar power has become a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Its ability to harness the abundant energy from the sun and its environmental benefits make it a promising solution to combat climate change and reduce our dependence on non-renewable resources. As more countries and individuals embrace solar power, we can expect to see a shift towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

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