Solar Energy Bright in Benefits

Each month, Worldwide Energy Vice President and COO Gaylen Davenport will publish his thoughts on the latest energy-efficient news, products, and trends.

Solar energy is no longer a technology of the future. In fact, it is the fastest growing energy source in the world, and businesses are taking advantage of this affordable, efficient, and reliable source.

Solar energy is clean, renewable, and generates zero carbon dioxide emissions, so it does not harm ecosystems and reduces our dependence on fossil fuels.

Utilizing the sun’s abundant rays, solar panels capture the sunlight and convert it to electricity that can be used. The sun generates more than 10,000 times the amount of energy the entire world consumes annually, and the vast potential for this “free” energy is enticing.

The power of solar technology is increasingly beneficial to businesses that are looking to reduce their long-term energy bills, while adding to their green communities. The solar panels themselves have no moving parts, make no noise, and need very little maintenance, a benefit to any building owner. And solar panels increase property value.

In the long run, businesses can save a great deal of money since it does not cost anything to harness the power of the sun. In the Kansas City area, the average annual sunshine level is nearly 5 hours a day, above average compared to other parts of the U.S. so utilizing the sun’s energy for electricity uses is very practical and beneficial.

There’s no denying it, solar is a large investment, much like any “new” technology, but available incentives can offset a large part of that investment. As technology and products continue to develop, and as more people adopt renewable energy practices, the costs will continue to drop.

More importantly, adopting renewable, energy-efficient technology not only creates a new standard for business, but a better, greener environment.

-Gaylen