With the effects of global warming creating havoc across the globe, most countries have woken up to the dangers of the continued use of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas.
It has now become mandatory for governments to set renewable energy targets, and as of 2015, some 164 countries, worldwide have adopted at least one type of renewable energy target. That’s almost 4 times more compared to 2005.
Targets are defined in terms of reduction in the consumption of energy derived from fossil fuels and their emissions.
What are the different types of renewable energy sources?
- BioEnergy: Modern bioenergy technologies include liquid biofuels produced from bagasse and other plants, biorefineries, biogas, wood pellets heating system. This is ideal for populous countries like China, India, Brazil.
- Geothermal: Heat derived from the subsurface of the earth. Water or steam, carry the geothermal energy to the subsurface from where it is tapped. This is a significant energy source in New Zealand, Iceland, El Salvador, Kenya, and the Philippines.
- Hydropower: Energy tapped from flowing water. Today it is the most cost-effective means of generating electricity.
- Wind power: Wind energy is used to provide mechanical power to turbines for generating electricity.
- Solar power: Energy harnessed directly from the sun, even on cloudy days. This alternative source of energy is getting increasingly popular worldwide. It is used to generate electricity, heat water and other fluids, and desalinating water.
Countries that are leading in the use of solar energy:
- United States of America: Home to the oldest solar power plant, tapping solar power is very popular across the country.
- Japan: Japan is the fastest growing nation in the solar power market.
- China: China is the record holder for the largest operational solar project.
- Italy: Promoting the use of solar power by incentivising the public use of solar power.
- Australia: In Australia an Expanded Renewable Energy Target was passed on August 20, 2009, declaring that 20% of all energy should be from sustainable sources. This has led to a tremendous jump in the use of solar power across the country.
Government initiatives to promote solar power:
Many countries have announced rebates and government-sponsored incentives like the Small-scale Technology Certificates (STC) for the use of solar energy.
STCs can be traded and sold in the open market or can be used as an upfront rebate to reduce the purchase price of a new solar system, enabling you to save thousands of dollars.
As per a 2013 report from KPMG, 31 countries across the globe, provide incentives like tax credits, subsidies, and grant-funded solar panels to promote renewable energy.
Your answer to solar power
Solaplumb is one of the oldest companies in Australia when it comes to servicing and maintenance of solar power systems.
We’re even capable of conducting maintenance, servicing, and repairs on a number of different solar panel brands and models which means you can keep your solar running better, and for longer!
Conclusion
The world is rapidly moving towards renewable energy sources which is a good thing for the environment, and also your quarterly energy bills.
Contact our solar power servicing team if you need help keeping your solar system running at its best.
