The environmental impact of switching to solar energy

There are many reasons to switch to solar, but one of the most important reasons is the environmental impact. Clean energy can make a huge difference in your family’s carbon footprint. 

Our Earth, Our Home

Our planet is a remarkable place. It’s a place we need to take care of, and a place we need to maintain. The Earth has no beliefs or political affiliations. It has been here for us since the beginning of our time–and if we care for it together, we’ll be around to enjoy its vast beauty. There’s a lot going on with the Earth right now, and that’s why Rooftop Solar is dedicated to re-energizing our communities and our environment through solar power–one household at a time.

Humans and their impact on the Earth

One of the main ways that humans affect our planet’s environment is through the emission of greenhouse gasses. Greenhouse gases are gasses that rise to the earth’s atmosphere and trap heat at our surface–a phenomenon known widely as global warming. The primary greenhouse gases in Earth’s atmosphere are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone. According to the EPA, human activities have been responsible for almost all of the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere over the last 150 years. The largest source of greenhouse gas emissions from human activities in the United States is from burning fossil fuels for electricity, heat, and transportation.

And while American industry has provided us in the United States with the modern lifestyle we have grown accustomed to, it hasn’t painted such a pretty picture for our planet. In fact, 50 years ago, the concentration of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere had never surpassed 300 PPM (Parts Per Million)–today that figure sits well above 410 PPM (via NASA). These greenhouse gasses trap heat and make the planet warmer. A warmer planet has implications on a mass scale that affect all of us and threaten our health, economy, and well being.

Just how much do we pollute?

In 2018, total U.S. electricity generation by the electric power industry of 4.17 trillion kilowatt hours (kWh) from all energy sources resulted in the emission of 1.87 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2). This equaled about 0.99 pounds of CO2 emissions per kWh. Scientific data from credible organizations such as NASA, EPA, EIA, and countless more provide statistically significant proof that these emissions cause global warming, rising sea levels, and a global climate that is conducive to natural disasters.

That’s a lot of pollution… Can I even make a difference?

By going solar, you directly decrease the amount of fossil fuels burned by your utility company. This decreases your utility’s carbon emissions and, in turn, global warming. In fact, the average home that switches to Rooftop Solar decreases carbon emissions by 560,000 lbs over the life of it’s solar array. To put that in perspective, that’s the same amount of CO2 emitted by consuming 44,553 gallons of gasoline, burning 436,274 lbs of coal, consuming 917 barrels of oil. It is also the environmental equivalent of planting 6,547 trees!

That impact is big–a lot bigger than many think. And when you go solar, you’re doing more than just your part to offset carbon. When you switch to Rooftop Solar, you become a part of our solar community. To date, our residential and commercial customers have committed to reducing both Arizona and California’s carbon footprint by an incredible 14,679,744 lbs of CO2 per year! That’s a difference to be proud of. Going with Rooftop Solar means joining nearly 1,000 other homeowners and businesses who are committed to making our planet a better place for the future.

Find out if solar makes sense for you

If you’d rather speak directly to one of our team members, get a free quote by calling (800) 786-7080.

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“Rooftop installed a big ground mount solar unit for us. They used their magic box to determine ideal angles and location. Installation was completed last year and I haven't had any issues with it, but have been saving a bundle of $$ by replacing propane and gas (car) by switching cars and appliances to electric. It more than pays for my electric bill.”

- Andy V.


“Rooftop Solar has been extremely professional and timely. They took care of all the application/paperwork with the utility company. The process was simple thanks to Rooftop Solar. The staff was very helpful to all my many questions and emails, and always responded immediately. I couldn't recommend them highly enough.”

- Nicolaus H.


“We went solar with 27 panels and couldn’t be happier. Rooftop Solar has been attentive to all of our concerns and the system has worked without fail. I would recommend Rooftop Solar for all solar jobs regardless of the size, this company is more than prepared.”

- Megan S

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