According to a study by Environment America, 10% of gross energy demand in America could be met by 2030 only with solar technologies available today.
The United States could obtain 10% of energy consumption from solar energy by 2030. This is the ambitious target stated in a report, “Building a Solar Future: Repowering America’s Homes, Businesses and Industry with Solar Energy”, drawn up by Environment America (a major US environmental group) supported by independent Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, well-known for his legislative efforts favouring renewables.
In order to meet 10% of overall gross energy consumption planned in the US for 2030, the study considers all currently available solar technologies (photovoltaics, thermodynamics, thermal panels, passive solar design), that must be adopted more or less intensively, in every field (construction, transport, industry, agriculture, etc.). In the field of construction, for example, all new homes should be built so as be zero energy net, while 35-40% of residential buildings are suitable for photovoltaic panels and in 50% of them solar thermal systems can be installed.
“The US spends 350 billion dollars every year importing oil from Saudi Arabia and other countries. A dramatic expansion of solar power is a clean and economical way to help break our dependence on foreign oil, reduce greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming, improve our geopolitical position, and create good-paying green jobs.”
Environment America recalled that solar energy can be used for electricity generation, lighting, building heating and cooling. In the future it will also be able to replace fossil fuels used in homes, businesses and for automobiles.
Source: Enel Green Power
