As COVID-19 continues to challenge the world in more ways than ever, it has also demonstrated the importance of our personal efforts in improving our overall society. Decisions such as wearing a mask and socially distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19 have revealed that despite borders, we are ultimately all interconnected. In other words, our day-to-day decisions affect our neighbors on a global scale. To preserve the earth for future generations, researchers and institutions are constantly finding ways to adapt our daily tasks to be more environmentally friendly. Renewable energy sources such as solar are becoming increasingly popular due to their positive environmental impact—and the many incentives that offer solar savings to energy customers.
Solar Improves Public Health
Since the start of the pandemic, the global focus has shifted largely towards the importance of public health. Non-renewable energy sources such as coal and natural gases are directly linked to emissions, leading to air and water pollution. Respiratory illnesses, neurological damage, heart attacks, cancer, and many other serious health issues stem from the environmental effects of non-renewable energy sources. Clean energy sources such as solar can greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions to improve the quality of air and water, significantly lowering the health risks of energy generation for the public.
As COVID-19 is more dangerous for individuals with respiratory illnesses and those living in low-income communities, the need to improve air quality is greater than ever. Solar power is considered a clean, green source of energy that reduces our overall carbon footprint and reduces the number of pollutants in the environment. Moreover, the decrease in carbon emissions means less pollution and cleaner air & water as a result. 
How Can I Contribute?
There are a number of ways that you can contribute to a healthier society—while saving on your energy bills at the same time.
#1. Install Solar Panels
Although there are several factors which determine whether or not your property is a good fit for a solar installation, there are many incentives and financing options that enable you to utilize the solar power generated directly from your property. By installing solar panels at your home or business, you are doing your part in improving the environment and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in your community.
#2. Sign up for Community Solar Programs
A common misconception from landowners and businesses is that a roof is necessary to reap the benefits of solar power. However, community solar provides landowners, renters, and businesses with equal access to the economic and environmental benefits of solar, even if their property cannot house the panels themselves. By signing up for a community solar option, subscribers can access solar power at locations throughout the country.
#3. Support Solar Policies in your Community
Advocating for renewable energy development plays a major role in the establishment of legislation and policies that can further the expansion of clean energy sources. Residents should push for state policies that facilitate the adoption of solar energy for both homeowners and businesses to ensure a sustainable future for their communities.
To develop your own solar project, reach out to YSG Solar today. YSG has been operating in the solar sector for over 10 years, working on everything from residential rooftop projects to large-scale solar farms. Call the office at 212.389.9215 or send us an email today to learn how much you could save with solar.
YSG Solar is a project development company responsible for commoditizing energy infrastructure projects. We work with long-term owners and operators to provide clean energy assets with stable, predictable cash flows. YSG's market focus is distributed generation and utility-scale projects located within North America.
Sources:
https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowner-s-guide-going-solar
https://www.seia.org/initiatives/community-solar
Featured Image by Jeremy Zero on Unsplash.
