Is Solar Energy Renewable?

Is solar energy renewable?

The short answer is yes. Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that transforms sunlight into electricity. Free and readily available, sunlight is non-polluting and, in contrast to fossil fuels, inexhaustible, which means it cannot run out.

Let’s take a closer look at the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy sources and why renewable energy could be the answer to unlocking a safer, greener future.

Renewable vs. Non-renewable Energy

Renewable and non-renewable energy sources are polar opposites:

Renewable energy uses natural sources that can be replenished quickly, like sunlight, wind, geothermal heat, and hydropower. Because renewable energy sources can never run out, we can rely on renewables to power the world today, tomorrow, and for decades to come.
Non-renewable energy uses sources that either can’t be replenished or take significant amounts of time to regenerate, such as coal and oil. The problem with non-renewable energy is two-fold: one, when the fuel runs out, we come face-to-face with a significant energy crisis, and two, burning non-renewable sources to generate energy produces harmful pollutants and greenhouse gases that destroy habitats and contribute to climate change.

Countries, corporations, and individual households looking to reduce their carbon footprint, save money, and protect the earth against the devastating threat of climate change turn to renewable energy. Benefits include:

Reduced or eliminated greenhouse gas emissions, which decreases air pollution
Diversification of energy sources, which can help end communities’ dependence on imported fuels
New economic and job opportunities
Saved money on electricity bills for both homes and business

How is Solar Power Produced?

Solar power is considered renewable because it uses the sun’s infinite heat and energy to produce electricity. Here’s how:

Light from the sun collides with a solar cell within a solar panel, knocking the cell’s semiconductor material atoms out of place.
The cell’s positive and negative conductors then harness this energy, creating an electrical current.

Is Solar the Best Form of Renewable Energy?

There is a good reason why solar power is so popular among homeowners – solar is one of the most efficient and inexpensive forms of renewable energy available commercially.

The cost barrier to entry is relatively low, solar panels are easily accessible across Australia, and most households find their solar panels pay for themselves within three to six years. That means over their 20-plus year lifespan, your solar panels will net you a profit.

Spotlight on Cairns

If you’re lucky enough to live in sunny Cairns, make solar power your renewable energy of choice. Why? Because up north, we enjoy sunshine 235 days a year, with an average of eight hours of bright sunlight each day.

The tropical climate is ideal for solar power, and the sooner you start harvesting the sun’s energy, the more money you’ll save long-term.