learn how you can slow climate change

Science has shown us that climate change and global warming are happening. The planet is rapidly warming up and consequences have followed. However, there are things we can do to slow climate change.

7 Tips:

  1. Reduce energy consumption: One of the biggest contributors to climate change is the burning of fossil fuels for energy. You can reduce your energy consumption by using energy-efficient appliances, turning off lights and electronics when they’re not in use, and using public transportation, carpooling, or biking instead of driving alone.
  2. Eat a plant-based diet: Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing your consumption of animal products, you can reduce your carbon footprint and help slow climate change.
  3. Use renewable energy: If you have the option, switch to a renewable energy source such as solar or wind power for your home or business.
  4. Conserve water: Water conservation not only helps to reduce your energy consumption (since it takes energy to pump, treat, and heat water), but it also helps to reduce the amount of water that is withdrawn from rivers, lakes, and aquifers, which can help to preserve these natural resources.
  5. Plant trees and support reforestation: Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, so planting and protecting forests can help to slow climate change. You can plant trees in your own yard or support organizations that are working to reforest areas around the world.
  6. Support politicians and policies that address global warming: Vote for politicians who prioritize addressing climate change and support policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. You can also advocate for climate action by contacting your elected representatives and participating in protests and other events.
  7. Educate others: Share information about global warming and what individuals can do to help slow it with your friends, family, and community. The more people who understand the problem and take action, the greater the impact we can have.
Net Metering

You’ve probably heard from your neighbor or someone else that you could save money with solar. We are here to tell you that it is true – making the switch to eco-friendly solar energy can save you money. It will help you reduce utility bills and provide you substantial tax incentives. However, we aren’t here to talk about those topics – but to cover the concept of net metering. We will discuss what net metering is, how it works, and where this is actually an option.

there are many ways to save money, including with solar energy
Net Metering is a great way to save money

What is Net Metering?

Net metering is often referred to as net energy metering. Net energy metering is when electric companies pay you back for the excess solar power produced by your photovoltaic system. As many know, there is an energy meter at each home. This is a way to tell how much energy a household has consumed. It also gives energy companies the accurate reading on what to charge customers. 

When your solar energy system happens to produce more electricity than needed, this power can be filtered back to the electric company. The meter would then be able to read the change, resulting in a payment from the utility company. Net metering is essentially the net of energy consumed and produced at a household. If solar produces more, then the homeowner gets paid!

This is one of the various benefits of making the switch to solar power. You can even get paid to do it through net metering programs offered nearby.

Get paid to go solar

Where is Net Metering an Option?

Many places allow for this service. There are several states in the U.S. that allow net metering, meaning there are areas where it is even more worth it to invest in solar energy. Additionally, there are also requirements that may need to be met, but the following states currently allow net metering:

  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Minnesota
  • Nevada
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • Utah
  • Washington
  • West Virginia

Check with local solar energy providers about your eligibility for net metering. It is definitely an opportunity to take advantage of if applicable to you and your home.  

Can I actually Save Money?
Yes, you can save and make money by going solar. In regards to net metering, utility companies often pay homeowners the retail rate of the energy. This means that they will buy it back at the price you paid for it! Sometimes, this is even increased to cover generation fees and other related costs. Give us a call today to learn more.

How does solar energy work

When considering the change to solar power, some may ask how solar actually works. It also may occur to someone, what are the benefits of solar? Let’s discuss a little bit more about how conversion from UV rays to usable energy occurs. We will also cover some of the basic benefits of switching to a photovoltaic system on your residence or business.

Solar Panel System
How does solar energy work

Most solar panels are made up of a bunch of solar cells. These cells are much like semiconductors are made primarily of silicon. This element allows the conduction of energy and electricity. In many ways like a battery, these cells have positive and negative components which allow for the flow of electrons. Because of these solar cells, panels are able to generate what is called direct current (DC) electricity. In DC electricity, the electric current flows only in one direction. The other type of electricity, alternating current (AC) can travel in multiple directions. Homes generate power from alternating current electricity so the solar panels convert DC electricity to AC electricity in order to power homes and appliances.

The conversion of DC electricity to AC is done by a solar power inverter. They are classified as a solar power electronic device, meaning that they are able to connect solar systems to the electrical grid. With ongoing advances in technology and solar power innovation, these types of systems are becoming more affordable and made with high quality materials. As photovoltaic systems increase in efficiency, the more benefit they have for homeowners. 

 

Obviously, the most power is generated on sunny days where direct sunlight hits the solar panels installed. However, there is a possibility of storing the power and obtaining credits or refunds through net metering. This will be discussed in another article.

 

Overall, solar power is generated in an eco-friendly way that can help you and your family save money. The science makes sense, and so do the savings!