Issues such as too much CO2 emissions and climate change are the order of the day. Climate targets have been set and governments are constantly looking for new solutions to achieve them. One such solution is a sustainable power supply from solar panels. But how sustainable is this solar power really?
Solar energy is energy generated from the light and heat of the sun. It is a renewable energy because the source of energy never runs out and no CO2 is emitted. In fact, there is not even any noise pollution when using solar energy. And no waste products are released when converting solar energy into electricity either. This makes the well-known solar panel one of the most effective forms of sustainable energy supply.
Unless a sustainable energy supply is used, observant readers will note that the production process of solar panels does emit CO2. Rightly so, as making solar cells takes a relatively large amount of energy. Yet technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated and efficient, meaning the break-even point is being reached more quickly. Meanwhile, the energy used in production is often recovered within a few years.
To determine how environmentally friendly solar panels are as a sustainable energy supply, we must also look at the lifespan of the panels. Newer panels often last up to 30 years. That means they can often provide clean energy without any emissions for over 25 years after the payback period. Moreover, much of the panel can also be recycled, which also keeps final waste very low.
As well as solar energy, there are other ways to generate power sustainably. For example, you can use wind, water or biomass. However, wind turbines can be a cause of nuisance for local residents and affect the view. Dams and turbines also impact natural ecosystems. When biomass is burned, CO₂ is emitted again. This is why, in our view, the solar panel is the most sustainable energy supply: it is noiseless, versatile and emission-free.
Another advantage over other renewable energy sources is that solar energy can be generated anytime and anywhere. So even when there is no wind and in places where there is no running water. Even when it is cloudy, the cells still generate energy. And because they do not affect local flora and fauna and cause no nuisance, portable solar panels are particularly suitable for mobile power supply at construction sites, event sites and in nature.
The relatively high production costs and necessary modifications to the home or business premises deter many people and companies from investing in solar panels. Renting solar panels therefore often offers a solution, although many energy suppliers now also no longer offer this option. The government's net-metering scheme is being phased out bit by bit, making renting less attractive. However, for the construction sector, agricultural businesses and event organisers, renting a sustainable genset is still advantageous.
So, for the following reasons, as far as we are concerned, solar panels are among the most sustainable energy supply:
