Environmental Impact


	Together, We Save Earth's Natural Resources: The Grid-based utilities use numerous forms of natural resources to generate the electricity we need. Coal and oil are perhaps the most used natural resources that are not replaceable, but we also dam rivers and otherwise change our natural environment to accommodate the production of electricity. Many of these energy sources have unintended consequences to our earth. Solar energy is essential to curbing the production of excess gases and waste resulting as a by-product of our electricity. Trees are a natural resource essential to keeping our CO2 levels down as they absorb the gas from the atmosphere, which they then convert into proteins, fats and carbohydrates to help in their growth and overall health. With deforestation occurring at rapid rates in lesser developed countries and humans and animals releasing CO2 into the atmosphere, we don't have enough trees to offset our CO2 release. Thankfully, the average solar system offsets an amount of CO2 that is equivalent to planting two acres of fully mature trees. Solar energy also curbs the need to clear land for mining so those trees can be maintained to intake CO2 and release oxygen into our earth's atmosphere.


	Together, We Produce Energy: Each appliance you use operates on a rate of energy called a watt (W). For example, a typical computer and monitor uses 270W, a dishwasher with dry cycle 1000W, and a microwave 1500W. These appliances also require high spikes of energy when they are turned on. Solar energy systems produce power in kilowatts (1 KW is equivalent to 1000 W), and the power they can produce is more than enough to power much, if not all, of your household energy needs. 1st Light Energy can help you understand your use of electricity while showing you how to produce clean energy through solar energy panels. The excess energy you produce is credited to you for use when your solar system is not producing (example: nighttime electrical needs). Your solar energy system will also attract others to produce energy and increase the amount of renewable energy available throughout the system. What a wonderful way to make a difference while becoming self-sufficient.


	Together, We Offset CO2: Carbon dioxide (CO2) is produced through many natural processes throughout our environment, but it is also produced as a by-product of burning fossil fuels. CO2, while necessary in the life process, can be treacherous for our planet when produced in excessive amounts, and is considered a major contributor to the deterioration of our atmosphere and the greenhouse effect. The average solar energy system removes 13,000 lbs of CO2 from the atmosphere, which lifts a major burden off of our struggling planet. Photovoltaic solar systems provide each of us a way of supporting the continued sustainability of our earth for our children and grandchildren. Our use of solar energy systems also provide the industry needed incentives to help build more efficient systems and better solar collectors for the next generation of PV systems. We can make a difference when we are actively engaged in supporting renewable energy. Adding solar energy systems to our residential homes, commercial businesses and non-profit buildings is a positive addition to our life on earth and helps to ensure to our next generations a better earth than we enjoy today.

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