Benefits of solar energy. The rise of solar is a function of cost. By Julie Peller Ph.D.

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 more by economics than by 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 decreased as the technology has advanced. 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 obtained in several 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 for most homes, it is less than that of a new vehicle. Numerous energy companies offer electricity generated by renewable sources (primarily 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 apartment dwellers. These units typically generate 10-30% of the electricity used in the home and cost $400-2000.

The People’s Republic of China has seen the largest 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 energy, the transition away from burning 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

Julie Peller, Ph.D., is an environmental chemist (Professor of Chemistry at Valparaiso University). She has been writing a weekly column, The Green Junction, for the past seven years and is helping to move the call of Laudato Si to action. Her research interests include advanced oxidation for aqueous solutions, water quality analyses, emerging contaminants, air quality analyses, challenges along the Lake Michigan shoreline (such as Cladophora, water, and sediment contaminants), and student and citizen participation in environmental work.