Green Junction - The Next Steps of Solar

  The rise in the use of solar panels for generating electricity continues at a rapid pace. According to Professor Ravi Silva (University of Surrey), who co-authored a published study on solar energy in 2025, “solar is the cheapest option for large-scale energy generation.” Arguably, society has been driven by economics more than the health and well-being of the earth and one another. It is of great benefit to society that the cost of solar systems has dropped as the technology has expanded and improved. A 2024 article by Hannah Ritchie explains “Costs have fallen by around 20% every time the global cumulative capacity doubles. Over four decades, solar power has transformed from one of the most expensive electricity sources to the cheapest in many countries.”

                Solar energy can be acquired in a number of ways. Roof-top panels have been the typical form of solar for homeowners, businesses, schools and more. The upfront cost is the greatest limitation, but the cost for most homes is less than that of a new vehicle. Numerous energy companies offer electricity generated by renewables (mostly solar and wind) to their customers. Another option for solar energy is called community solar. Neighborhoods or communities that participate in a large solar entity typically subscribe to, or possibly own, part of the solar array. In turn, they receive an electric bill credit for electricity generated by their share of the community solar system. The most recent addition to solar options is balcony solar panels. These are portable units that can even be used by renters and those who live in apartments. These units typically generate 10-30% of the electricity used in the home and cost in the range $400-2000.

                The People’s Republic of China boasts the greatest increase in solar energy generation. In 2025, China surpassed 1,000 GW (Gigawatts) of solar capacity, compared to the 180 GW capacity in the US. One GW is equivalent to 1 billion watts and one GW of solar energy can power roughly 300,000 homes. While it is wise from economic and security standpoints to adopt renewable energies, the transition away from the burning of fossil fuels is critical for the health and well-being of the earth and its inhabitants. Our children and future generations are counting on us to make decisions based on their well-being. “To damage the earth is to damage your children.” Wendell Berry