Learn About Renewable Energy Sources This St. Patrick’s Day

There is no getting around it; the future is here, and the future runs on renewable energy sources. Wind, solar, and geothermal are changing the ways homes and businesses consume energy. And what’s better, it’s even easier than ever before to get started.

This St. Patrick’s Day, one can start “going green” by first learning about how renewable energy sources work. Interested parties can continue reading to learn more.

The Three Main Types of Renewable Energy Sources

The U.S. Department of Energy lists multiple types of renewable energy sources, but, in general, homes rely on the following:

• Solar energy: Many states (including Florida) offer tax and financial incentives for homeowners to switch to solar energy panels. These panels absorb the sun’s rays and convert them into electricity. Not only are solar panels affordable, but they can also reduce one’s energy bill and add to a property’s value.
• Wind energy: The Environmental Information Administration (EIA) notes that wind energy is one of the best renewable energy sources available. Homeowners install wind turbines on their properties, and the wind makes the blades spin. This kinetic energy creates electrical energy, powering a home’s appliances.
• Geothermal energy: Geothermal energy relies on the Earth’s temperature to generate electricity. This is common in Nevada and New Mexico.

Some places are better for these renewable energy sources than others. For instance, installing solar panels wouldn’t make sense in Alaska because of its dark winters––just like how installing wind turbines wouldn’t make much sense in Florida, where there aren’t strong wind currents.

There Are Many Benefits of Renewable Energy

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists some benefits of sustainable energy sources:

• They don’t produce greenhouse emissions: Greenhouse gasses are one of the primary contributors to global warming. These gasses get trapped in the Earth’s atmosphere, causing climate changes. Solar energy, wind energy, and geothermal energy do not produce such emissions.
• They put less demand on foreign fuels: Foreign fuel prices can fluctuate wildly based on demand. Renewable energy sources consistently cost the same from month to month – and the cost isn’t much.
• Many states pay for renewable energy systems’ installation: Many people think switching to renewable energy is expensive, but that is no longer the reality. For instance, many Florida-based organizations offer discounts on initial installation costs and maintenance. The state offers tax credits based on the number of kilowatt-hours a home uses.

These are just some of the benefits of renewable energy sources. However, one of the greatest benefits is the peace of mind that one’s home isn’t contributing to climate change.

Solar and Wind Energy Are the Best Types of Renewable Energy Sources

The EIA notes that solar and wind energy are both the best energy sources. Here’s why:

• Both involve low installation costs, making it easy for the average homeowner to “make the switch.”
• Solar panels and wind turbines are generally low-risk to the surrounding area and environment. They also don’t require invasive installation methods.
• Both can significantly reduce how much non-renewable energy a home uses.

About Elite Electric & Air

There’s a reason why residents of Jupiter, Florida, turn to Elite Electric & Air for all their home improvement needs. These specialists offer same-day service, upfront pricing options, and a host of AC, heating, plumbing and electrical services in Jupiter.