As any former Boy Scout will tell you, the organization’s motto, “Be Prepared,” sticks in your head long after the hikes, service projects, and campouts are over. For many, it becomes a lifelong mantra. In uncertain times like these, as a pandemic combines with social unrest, it’s more important than ever that we consider ways to be prepared for the future.
We’ve written before about the vital importance of energy security for homeowners, businesses and commercial buildings, and even our national security infrastructure. One of the most important investments we can make in our future energy security is in renewable energy sources. Whether for a single home, a small community, or major institutions like hospitals, college campuses, or military installations, solar energy can provide a power source that enhances our security and preparation.
Solar Energy is Secure Energy
In the event of systemic power loss, buildings that are able to capture, store, and consume their own solar energy are at a distinct advantage. This security can come from individual solar systems consisting of photovoltaic panels, battery storage, and an inverter that controls the flow of power, or community microgrid systems that serve larger communities and spread out costs (some even operate on a subscription model similar to Netflix!). As the rate and severity of natural disasters increases due to global warming, and international relations are frayed by scarcity of resources or diplomatic tensions, being prepared means maintaining our energy security.
Energy security means more than just keeping the lights on. For homeowners, it includes the ability to rely on heating and cooling systems to function year-round, for internet connectivity and phone charging to stay connected to the world, and for systems like refrigeration to keep perishables from going bad. For some, it even includes the ability to charge an electric vehicle. For business owners, energy security means all of these things in addition to maintaining revenue from the use of a facility and enabling work to continue even during energy interruptions. For facilities such as hospitals and military installations, it means continuous access to life-saving machines and the ability to respond without hesitation during a crisis.
As Resilience notes, “A renewable power system is not dependent on foreign energy imports nor vulnerable to fuel price manipulations – which are the main worries in an energy infrastructure that is largely based on fossil fuels.” As we see every time there’s a natural disaster, our existing energy infrastructure is vulnerable to interruptions in many ways, from downed power lines to supply chain issues and more. However, “once they are installed, renewable power systems are ‘secure’ in a way and for a period of time that fossil fuels (and atomic energy) are not.”
What Does Energy Security Look Like?
Energy security through solar power can be achieved in a variety of ways and in a variety of applications. For some, it’s enough to know that stored solar energy is available as a backup in the event of grid malfunctions. Others prefer to go “off-grid” and achieve complete independence from the power grid and utility companies, which often don’t act in the best interests of their consumers. For those in remote locations, solar microgrids may be the only way to achieve energy security.
At Solar Design Studio, our Everything Solar approach is designed to give consumers maximum choice and flexibility in crafting the solar energy system that best fits their needs and budget. As experienced solar consultants, we work closely with clients to create a package of products tailored to every unique situation. Our multi-faceted method ensures optimal function, security, and savings.
Are you ready to “Be Prepared” with an investment in your energy security? Contact us today to get started.
