Defining Solar 

At Walking Mountains, we use solar energy to support the Eagle County emission reduction goals and guide the community on energy savings. But what exactly is solar and why are we using it?  Solar energy is the process of harnessing the sun’s energy and converting it into thermal or electrical energy that can be used to power homes, businesses, and more. There are many benefits to solar, which is the reason solar energy is the fastest growing global energy source. 

The Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy provides a range of environmental and financial benefits that make it an increasingly attractive energy solution. One of the biggest benefits of using solar energy is that it is a clean and renewable resource that helps reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, contributing to a healthier planet. 

Financially, solar can lead to significant long-term savings that exceed the initial investment. Once panels are installed, homeowners and businesses can start saving on their monthly electricity bill. The average return on investment (ROI) for solar panels in the U.S. is 10%, meaning they pay for themselves over time. Solar also has the potential to increase a home’s value. Since solar energy  requires very little maintenance and typically lasts 25 years or more, it is a low-maintenance, high-value investment.

The Challenges of Solar Energy

Although there are many benefits to solar energy, there are some challenges to consider. The most notable is the initial high cost of installation and storage. Although the cost of installing solar panels has decreased by over 40% in the last ten years, the upfront cost can be concerning. That being said, the cost of solar can be significantly reduced, especially in the state of Colorado where the average savings on solar is $4,251 thanks to rebates and other incentives such as the Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit.

Another challenge of solar is that it is weather dependent. However, with plentiful sunny days and clear skies, Colorado is an ideal location for solar.  Colorado is great for solar thanks to the plentiful sunny days and clear skies making it easier for homeowners and businesses to take advantage of solar.

How Solar Energy Works

The sun is constantly undergoing nuclear fusion in its core, where temperatures reach around 27 million °F. There, it goes through a process known as a proton-proton chain reaction where hydrogen atoms collide and form helium and release vast amounts of energy in the form of heat and light that travel towards Earth as photons. The sun is continuously making energy through this process, which is what we feel as heat and light here on Earth.

When these photons hit the solar panels, the photovoltaic effect occurs. The solar cells within solar panels convert the sunlight into direct current energy. This electricity then flows through a wire to an inverter, converting the electricity into an alternating current. This inverter is what makes the electricity usable in homes, businesses, and wherever it may be used. 

While photovoltaic systems are the most common, concentrated solar power is another method of generating electricity from the sun.  Concentrated solar power differs from conventional solar power because it uses mirrors to direct sunlight to one single point that creates heat. This heat is then used to power a steam turbine to generate electricity. 

Energy Efficiency Tips

While being energy efficient during the hot summer months is beneficial to the environment, it can also help reduce the cost of your electricity bill. Here are some methods that can be useful!

• Contact an energy coach at Walking Mountains to schedule an energy assessment. Get rebates for new appliances, building envelope sealing and weatherization, and heat pumps to improve efficiency and boost comfort. 
• Utilize windows, curtains, and blinds strategically.  Control the temperature of your home by shutting windows and curtains during the day and opening your windows during the night to let cooler air in. 
• Grill outside in the Summer! Using the oven can increase the temperature of your home, so resort to using the stovetop or grill outside.
• Unplug unused appliances. Even if an appliance is turned off, it can still draw energy when plugged in. Make sure to unplug appliances to avoid wasted energy and save money.

Although solar may come with a few challenges, the benefits far outweigh them by creating a more sustainable and safer future. With the support of local and state incentives, everyone can make a lasting impact that benefits their wallets and the environment.

Johnathan Monroy-Ponce is a Sustainability Intern at Walking Mountains.