When we talk about the future of solar energy we are usually thinking on a large scale. For the most part, this makes perfect sense. We need very large projects to address big and complex energy demands. And this is exactly what communities around the world are doing.
Solar, seen by many as a primary renewable energy source of the future, still has one major flaw. What happens at night when the sun isn't shining? The rise of batteries for energy storage offers a viable solution to this problem. Producing energy at night from renewable sources in now a reality for many.
Communities of the future are being created all around us. Our infrastructure is being reimagined with sustainability and self reliance at the fore front. This does not have to come at the expense of aesthetics. A common objection to solar panels and renewable technology is that they looking bulky and unattractive. As new building and installation techniques are developed - we are starting to see how solar can be integrated seamlessly into our everyday lives.
Gone are the days in which solar was just for hippes or environmentalist. Energy from solar photovoltaic technology is becoming a powerful force in our world’s energy production portfolio. Owning a solar PV (photovoltaic) energy system is a means to take your energy production into your own hands. Instead of relying on utility companies to provide energy, who jack up your costs at will. Many property owners have decided to produce their own energy. You can use that energy yourself or you can sell that energy. Like a farmers milking his/her cow, photovoltaic system owners pump energy into the energy grid to reap the benefits.
Remarkable progress is being made across the US to drive our society towards a more sustainable and reliable version of itself through renewable technologies. Legislation across the US on the state, city, and county levels are passing renewable energy mandates that will completely remove these communities off fossil fuel dependency. To date, a total of 25 US cities have committed to producing 100% of its energy from renewables sources. These sources primarily consist of hydroelectric, solar, and wind.
