“The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth”. The COVID19 Pandemic
has allowed the space for each of us to individually reflect upon our values, our money,
our economy, and our Earth. Many individuals, communities and businesses have
suffered as a result of this impact, yet, many are finding themselves resilient and are
developing themselves to become stronger than ever before. Despite what is happening
right now, we simply cannot and should not forget about the crisis that has existed for
countless decades prior to the Pandemic – The Climate Crisis.
At this climatic point in time, approximately one fourth of the current globe’s
population lives without electricity, from as far back as the 1970’s. While each of us
remains at home, comfortable and convenient, many around the world do not have
access to modern renewable sources of electricity. Consequently, various communities,
nations and countries still rely on biomass burning, charcoal, firewood, animal waste
and many more. This not only leads to quintessential problems for the environment, but
also human and environmental health, as well.
Not many of us have the answers to all of the world’s problems. However,
researchers, academics and scientists have discovered various solutions which can
help to increase energy efficiency and decrease human and environmental hazards, but
this means that renewable energy must be developed in countries at an increased, and
potentially, a more exponential rate than it is currently. The development of renewable
energy in countries globally will result in healthy, clean and energy efficient sources,
greater consciousness surrounding environmental issues and awareness, more resilient
and efficient infrastructure, as well as help boost the local economies through job
creation.
Humanity’s advancements in the area of renewable energy and energy efficiency
has also led to the creation of innovative alternatives which are functionable, reliable,
and are a great investment in our collective intergenerational future. Unlike residential
solar panel solutions which are powered using net metering, microgrid solutions are
“energy supply networks built around a local power source.. they are usually designed
to supplement national grid supply but can operate autonomously, which is especially
true in rural parts of North America…and lack the dependence on a centralized grid”.
(Kasarjian) Not only are microgrids efficient, but they can be more readily available to
implementation in off-the-grid communities and rural areas. There is endless potential
around the world for the implementation of renewable energy, and that includes
developing nations. Underdeveloped and rural communities could benefit greatly from
these energy efficient solutions, as traditional systems and societies often hold on to
conventional forms of energy.
Renewable energy and solar panels, in every shape and form, are essential to the
growth, prosperity and health of our communities, our individual lives and our nations.
The growth, development and implementation of these solutions will help advance
technology, grow our economies, facilitate job creation and innovation. Renewable and
affordable energy is our future.