The idea of using the sun to give us power seems ancient and obvious, but we have only seen solar energy usage become available in recent years. This is mostly down to the effects of our carbon emissions on the atmosphere and the repercussions we will face if we do not act fast to change them.

Solar energy has many advantages over its fossil fuel counterpart which is why we are seeing investments in solar energy products skyrocket. But don’t take my word for it. Here are just some of the many advantages to using solar energy:

• Solar energy doesn’t pollute the earth. We have only started taking notice of our carbon emissions recently, but we have been polluting our planet for many years. The proof of this plain for all to see; global warming, melting ice caps, holes in the ozone layer etc. The wonderful thing about solar energy is that it doesn’t add to any of the above! In fact, it does quite the opposite. The more we use solar panels to create electricity, the less we rely on atmosphere-polluting energy sources.

• Solar energy is renewable. In contrast to fossil fuels such as oil, solar energy isn’t in jeopardy of being depleted any time soon. That’s because when the sun shines we get energy and according to scientists that’s going to happen for at least another 4000 years!

• Solar panels can last a lifetime! They also require very little upkeep thanks to the lack of moveable parts.

• Solar power is extraordinarily versatile. It has the ability to power a wide range of creations; laptops, cars, buildings, lights, phones, showers, satellites… You name it; solar energy can more often than not power it!

• Solar energy is free! Thankfully we aren’t charged to see the sun shine (yet) which means that after the original costs of buying and fitting them, solar panels can provide you with free energy for a lifetime! What’s more, most governments across the globe are offering payments to each homeowner that has solar panels installed. Couple that with being able to sell unused energy back to the grid and you really do get your money’s worth!

• Solar panels add value to your home! A house with solar panels installed is cheaper to live in thanks to the decreased energy bills. This means your home becomes more appealing to a potential buyer, making solar panels a concrete investment.

• Solar power can be used in remote locations. In areas without access to the common power lines most of us have use for electricity, solar panels can be used as a more-than-worthy substitute for energy.