Is Solar Energy Renewable or Nonrenewable?

Solar energy is absolutely a renewable resource. Renewable resources are defined by their ability to be continuously replenished. Since the sun rises every day and produces consistent power every day, solar energy falls under the category of renewable resources.

Where Do Renewable Materials Come From? 

Renewable resources are constantly replenished through natural means. Some examples of renewable resources include wind, water and sunlight. Since using these resources daily does not impact the amount that there will be in the future, they can be used indefinitely, without fear of major environmental impact. Using these resources is key to fighting climate change and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. 

Why Is Solar Energy Considered A Renewable Resource? 

Every day when the sun comes up, sunlight is sent toward the earth, whether or not we’ve captured it with solar panels. The consistent daily source of sunlight means that we could capture sunlight every day and there would never be a time when the sun runs out of energy to give. That’s because billions of years remain before the sun is expected to die.

This is part of what makes solar power one of the most adaptable and reliable sources of renewable energy. Every day, whether it’s a fully sunny day or it’s an overcast day, it’s possible to capture sunlight and convert it into usable energy for your home. Solar panels work all year and your panel system can be designed to fit your home’s unique energy needs based on current electric usage and your personal energy goals.

How Easily Are Renewable And Non-renewable Resources Obtained And Replenished?

Renewable energy resources can be found in nature. In most cases, a tool is used to harness the energy and convert it into usable electricity. To harness sunlight, we use solar panels, and to harness wind power, we use turbines. Dams can be used to harness the energy of running water, and biodiesel can be created by burning organic material. In all cases where renewable energy resources are used, the environmental impact is substantially lower than if non-renewable resources are used.

Nonrenewable resources also vary in the ways that they’re collected. Fossil fuels are one of the most commonly used non-renewable resources. Oil must be drilled for, collected and burned. Coal must be mined and burned. Every step of collecting and processing fossil fuels has a major impact on the environment. Drilling compromises local ecosystems, and burning fuels releases pollutants into the atmosphere that have dire consequences for both the environment and humans.

Harvest The Sun’s Energy With Pink Energy

If you’re looking for a reliable source of renewable energy to help power your home and reduce your environmental footprint, contact Pink Energy. Our consultants would be happy to work with you to create a customized solar solution that will help provide you with electricity for years to come.