The Environmental Benefits: Beyond the Financials
When it comes to solar energy, the conversation often revolves around financial savings. However, at San Diego County Roofing & Solar, we find that homeowners are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their energy choices. So, how much CO2 can you actually save by installing solar panels?
Carbon Emissions: The Numbers You Need to Know
Solar energy’s carbon-saving potential varies from home to home. Factors like the orientation of your home and your energy consumption patterns play a crucial role. This is why it’s essential to work with local roofing companies in San Diego that understand the nuances of solar installation.
For context, each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity produced in California emits approximately 0.879 lbs of carbon. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems can significantly reduce this carbon footprint.
Solar Energy vs. Carbon Emissions: The Math
Let’s delve into some calculations. A typical residential solar system can produce around 9 kW and approximately 10,000 kWh annually. If we multiply these carbon-free kilowatt-hours, we get:
10,000kWh×0.879=8,790lbs of CO2
10,000kWh×0.879=8,790lbs of CO2
This amount of carbon emissions is equivalent to 449 gallons of gasoline or nearly a year without driving.
Calculating Your Own Carbon Savings
To gauge the environmental impact of your solar system, you can use your solar kWh generation and the lbs of CO2 to find out how much carbon your system offsets. For instance, 8,790 lbs of CO2 is equivalent to charging 484,999 smartphones for a year or using 163 propane cylinders for home barbecues.
A Broader Perspective: The Global Impact
Solar installations have a cumulative effect. For example, over the past nine years, solar energy systems have accounted for 33,000 kW of power. This translates to millions of kWh generated annually and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions:
30,000,000kWh×0.879=26,370,000lbs of CO2 a year
30,000,000kWh×0.879=26,370,000lbs of CO2 a year
These numbers are equivalent to saving 27,693 oil barrels or recycling 508,944 trash bags instead of sending them to landfills.
Why Trust San Diego County Roofing & Solar?
Choosing the right solar installation contractor is crucial. As one of the leading San Diego roofing companies, we design your solar PV system to fit your specific energy requirements. We also offer various rebates and incentives to make your solar system more affordable.
Are You Ready to Make a Difference?
The numbers speak for themselves. Solar energy not only saves you money but also significantly reduces your carbon footprint. So, are you ready to make a sustainable choice?
