15/06/2020
Solar Energy: What are the Problems and What is the Solution
When it comes to our energy needs, there are three main problems. We have confused needs and desires, cheap energy and not educated ourselves enough on understanding energy. Let me explain. Need is a word that gets used out of context all the time, it falls into the category of words like have to, should, got to and must. When we hear those words, we feel as if our choice is taken away and we are presented with something we HAVE TO DO or else. The reason I bring this up is, what is it we need in our homes that require energy? People say all the time to me, but I need a Dryer; I need Air-con… I need, need, need. When in reality all they refer to are just desires. Most people buy appliances because other people own one and feel they need (desire) it without taking time to figure out if that is the right decision to make at that period, knowing what the devices would do for them, how energy-efficient these devices could be, and the energy cost they will incur overtime. The more energy-demanding appliances you have the higher the cost of running them. In reality, we don’t need it all to survive. Think about how much excess electrical load you have in your home just because it saves you time or helps you do something faster.
The next part of the problem is cheap energy. Cheap energy has helped bad building designs to get built because we don’t need to insulate or think about solar aspect anymore. Cheap fossil fuels have had an enormous part in making renewable energy seem expensive. Fossil fuels receive a huge chunk of currency from governments to keep the energy coming. This has contributed to an annual $14 billion spent on importation of small-scale generators into Nigeria, which not only affects the environment negatively due to high emissions of CO2 but also human health and economy. If they charged us the true cost of what it takes to get the energy to us, I guarantee that would instantly help reduce the need for energy in our homes.
The last point is a lack of education. I spent many years attempting to do what I have done. After years of researching, I found out that I don’t have to do what everyone else is doing. We failed to realise the effect of fossil fuel on our planet and the health issues that comes with it. We have been made to believe that energy is cheap. Trust me it is not. Research has proved over the years that cheap energy (fossil fuel) has done more damage than good to us, our environment, and the economy.
The solution to all of these is simple. Reduce your load and install a local power station. The solution to our energy needs is no different from fixing our food problems; go local and stock up what you need. It all starts with basic (necessity) energy needs, and you scale up from there. In solar system design, it`s called critical load analysis. One of the beauties of the solar system is the flexibility to upgrade your system as the need arises and it will pay off for itself within a very short period while you enjoy about 25 years of power generation from the sun. If everyone installed a Hybrid semi standalone system, it would change the whole energy game. They are renewable energy systems that use the grid as a backup (if available) when required. The great thing about semi standalone systems is that you can buy a small system and add to it. You will always have power and as your systems grow your dependence on the grid is reduced. For less than #400,000 you can build a semi standalone system and start weaning yourself off fossil fuels today!
Whether you are interested in this energy source because of profound environmental concern, or you are more attracted to the idea of low-cost energy and money saving, or to serve as an alternative power source, going solar can prove to be a remarkably smart idea.
To go solar has never before been easier. Our team of independent solar consultants will help you sort through your options. To see how much you can save, and for all other solar questions, request a free consultation. There’s no obligation.
Contact us at Lyla today!
