With technology improving and costs falling, the advantages of solar energy are becoming more apparent. The benefits of going solar reach beyond energy savings and touch everything from home value to the long-term health of the global ecosystem.

According to the IEA, renewable energy installed capacity is expected to grow by 8% in 2022, breaking the 300GW mark for the first time. Solar energy is expected to account for 60% of new global renewable energy capacity this year, with 190GW of new installed capacity, up 25% from last year. In an earlier report, the IEA noted that renewable would account for 90% of global electricity capacity growth in 2021 and 2022.

While the roots of solar energy go back to the 1700’s, the photovoltaic technology we still use today came from Bell Labs in 1954. In a relatively short time, solar panels have evolved rapidly and now offer increased efficiency at lower costs. Solar energy now powers commercial developments, homes, and even the International Space Station!