Why solar?
Just 149 million kilometers away there is a massive nuclear fusion reactor delivering clean, sustainable, safe, free energy to the planet, more than all of humanity could use in the lifetime of the earth.
Sunlight is the earth’s primary source of energy, and is the only inexhaustible source of sustainable energy we have.
At last we are tapping into its potential!
Here are some interesting facts on solar energy that highlight its use as a cost effective energy solution for the world as well as its significant potential in helping to resolve the global energy and climate crises.
- The Earth receives more energy from the sun in one hour than is used in the entire world in one year.
- In just a few days the earth receives as much solar energy in the form of heat and light from the sun than could be produced by burning all the oil, coal and wood on the planet.
- Globally, there are over two billion people without access to electricity. For these populations it is often more economically cost effective and reliable to install solar panels than to extend established electricity grids.
- Harnessing solar energy can reap significant economic benefits for businesses, individuals and governments alike. It provides energy security, effectively locking in an infinite source and stable price of energy for decades to come, allowing accurate forecasting and peace of mind.
- Solar panel production has been doubling every two years, increasing by an average of 48 percent each year since 2002, making it the world’s fastest-growing energy technology.
- The area of roof space available in Australia is enough to provide all of the nation's electricity using Sungrid solar panels.
- It would take only around 0.3 per cent of the world's land area to supply all of our electricity needs via solar panels.
- Weight for weight, silicon-based solar cells generate the same amount of electricity over their lifetime as nuclear fuel rods, without hazardous waste as a byproduct. All the components in Sungrid solar panels can be recycled, whereas nuclear waste remains a threat for millions of years.
- Sungrid solar panels have a positive carbon payback and energy payback. That is, the amount of carbon released and energy consumed to make solar panels is avoided (paid back) through sustainable, clean, emissions-free electricity production within 1 - 4 years of operation. With an operating life of 20+ years, using Sungrid solar panels ensures a generous carbon reduction and energy payback.