Go Solar!

Originally this article was one of the brief Sustainable Living Tips and Conversations written by Christine Muller for the Wilmette Institute’s monthly newsletter.

The sun is the source of life and light, and is the cause of the growth and development of all things within the solar system.

'Abdu'l-Baha, Some Answered Questions

Why should you consider solar power? The science is clear. Generating electricity from coal, oil, and gas causes emissions of carbon dioxide and methane, both of which we must reduce quickly and substantially if we want to avoid catastrophic climate change. It makes sense to use the energy that the sun provides us for free and naturally without pollution. There are only two prerequisites: Your roof needs to be sunny and in good condition. What are the financial implications? In the long-term, solar power makes good economic sense almost everywhere because the cost of solar panels has come down tremendously in the past years. Moreover, there are financial incentives in some countries. Hence the cost of installing solar power depends on where you live. Many people these days install solar power merely for its economic benefit. Bahá’ís should have a deeper motivation—love for creation and humankind.

Of course, all energy use comes with an environmental cost. The production of solar panels requires rare Earth minerals, and there is a big problem of their disposal later on. However, considering all factors, solar power is much more environmentally friendly than fossil fuels.

For general information about solar power: https://www.iea.org/energy-system/renewables/solar-pv#overview

For information about solar power in the United States: https://www.dsireusa.org

Source: Wilmette Institute Newsletter, July 2017