Solar Energy and Alternative Energy
Solar energy is used in many schools across the country. Solar energy is clean, efficient, and easy to use. Solar energy works great with teaching and smart technologies. It also makes an excellent choice for powering affordable and eco-friendly venues that serve thousands upon thousands of students. Schools are green-friendly institutions that are cutting edge hubs for cutting-edge knowledge and innovative pathways to the future. With the rising cost of fuel and the growing concern over our deteriorating environment, it’s no wonder that schools are making the decision to go solar.
The process of going solar starts at the high school level. Most high schools have invested in solar energy kits for classroom use. These kits come complete with everything a student needs to convert their home’s electricity use from conventional electricity to solar energy. Some of the things that they need including solar panels, batteries, converters, cabling, wires, and outlets.
After the high school classroom, solar panels and solar energy installation move on to colleges and universities. Universities have an even bigger investment in solar energy than high schools do because unlike a home, they don’t have the option of building their own solar panels. They must purchase their electricity from a utility that sells it to them. In order to save money, most colleges invest their savings into a “green” electric utility that allows them to offset their high cost of electricity. This “green utility” is usually a separate company that sells electricity to schools and their students at a discounted rate.
Another important place to make the transition is through the business community. Most large companies today have either direct or indirect ties to solar installation companies. In addition, these companies may offer the opportunity for schools to have solar power installations on their premises. This helps many companies save money. Large companies may even pay for the installation and maintenance of solar panels.
The government can also help with solar power installations in the form of tax credits. Tax credits are given to those who invest in solar energy, instead of regular electricity. Incentives are sometimes offered as well, which allow people to make donations to public institutions, such as schools, museums, parks, and public buildings. In some states, green energy programs are funded in part by tax credits. Solar arrays and other installations may be partially or wholly supported by tax incentives.
When the public has a taste of solar energy, it will be encouraged to make the switch in order to lower their electricity bills and contribute to world climate change. However, some individuals may resist this change, because of the initial cost. In order to encourage the general population to get solar installed, school districts can offer incentives for students to choose to have solar installed on their school property. For example, if the array is used for all three days of the week and for an entire four days of the year, the district will receive an additional two thousand dollars. This option could be beneficial for schools that do not currently have solar installed.
Installation costs for schools can be staggering. Solar panels can easily run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Fortunately, when schools make the switch to green technology, they will receive financial aid and tax breaks. Installation costs are far less expensive for schools to implement than the alternative of selling gasoline for their electricity needs.
While it is true that solar energy has many advantages, such as being a clean energy source, schools should also consider the fact that there are many potential disadvantages. Installing solar panels means that schools may be decreasing their environmental impact. However, if the schools do not use the energy wisely, the costs could quickly be out-of-control. By using solar power wisely, schools can ensure that the benefits of having a clean energy source will be able to be realized for years to come.
