1. The SUN has been glowing for 4.5 billion years & will continue to glow for another 4.5 billion years. There is no question of solar energy getting exhausted in the near future!
2. Energy equivalent to 1.37 KW of electricity reaches every square meter of the Earth, from the sun.
3. Energy received from the sun in one hour is sufficient to provide all our energy needs for one year.
4. The sun is responsible for the formation of clouds and is the reason behind rain & rivers.
5. The sun's gravity is responsible for the different seasons on Earth.
6. Moon light is reflected sun light.
7. The sun is the source of energy for almost everything on this earth.
8. Plants convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis. All animals are dependent on plants directly or indirectly for food.
9. The sun is the source for wind energy, hydro energy, tidal energy, biomass and every other form of renewable energy.
10. Coal, petroleum, oil, natural gas and other fossil fuels are stored solar energy from the past.
11. We can today convert both the sun's light (solar PV) and the sun's heat (solar thermal), directly into electricity without creating any pollution/carbon emissions. In spite of this, we are still dependent on coal, petroleum, natural gas and other fossil fuels for our energy needs. Not only that, we also experience regular power-cuts in spite of being located at the equatorial region that gets the maximum solar energy!
12. While it may not be immediately possible to replace all the conventional sources of energy, should we not be looking at solar energy to at least cover the deficit? Solar energy may not (yet) be affordable enough for the masses, but people who can buy cars could easily be able to set-up a small 1 KW solar plant at their homes?
13. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is already providing 30% capital subsidy for buying solar panels (for both residential and commercial purposes) in India. In addition to that, various state governments are providing (or will shortly provide) their own incentives for establishing small solar power plants at rooftops. Even if you live in apartments, it is possible to establish a common solar power plant that could easily replace expensive diesel generators.
14. Due to improved technology and increased competition, solar panels come with higher efficiencies and lower cost. Solar panels easily work for 20-25 years, with little or no maintenance. It is possible to store solar power in batteries and use it during the night, when the sun doesn't shine. Since solar power is consumed at source, there are no transmission losses.
15. Solar lamps are fast replacing kerosene lanterns and solar street lights are becoming more common today. Critical equipment like ATM's and telecommunication towers are also powered using solar panels today. So, why not use it at your homes?
Switch ON the SUN today. Vist http://switchonthesun.in/
Rajesh K is a sustainable-living enthusiast and a blogger. He blogs @ http://www.destinationinfinity.org/ (personal blog) & www.solarwindhydroenergy.com (renewable energy blog).
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