Philadelphia Renewable

The United States is spending a great deal of money trying to combat problems caused by the use of fossil fuels. Environmental degradation is forcing everyone, worldwide, to consider other sources of energy. One of the more popular alternatives that is starting to be used extensively throughout this country is solar energy. By using photovoltaic panels or solar thermal collectors, the heat and energy from the sun’s rays can be transformed into electricity. Solar power can also be used for heating and cooling of a building. Solar America Cities is a partnership through the U.S. Department of Energy and is comprised of 25 major cities in the U.S. who are striving to expand their use of renewable resources, particularly through the use of solar technology.As part of this partnership, Philadelphia is focusing on making solar power an affordable investment. The city has its own individual partnership called The Solar City Partnership, which has set a goal of generating 2.3 megawatts of solar electricity by 2011 and hopes to be producing 57.8 megawatts by 2021. Another outcome of this partnership is Maple Point, a solar neighborhood in Philadelphia. This townhome community has 38 energy star homes. Additionally, in 2008 plans were laid to create a solar development project in Navy Yard. On top of the environmental benefits and long-term cost savings of such a project, this endeavor will create hundreds of jobs. In 2008, the Department of Energy named Philadelphia one of 12 Solar America Cities. These cities were chosen based on the steps they are taking to promote solar energy and serve as a model for the nation. All of these cities have done their part to promote solar technology on a local level.Solar energy is becoming a more promising and feasible alternative to traditional fossil fuels all the time. If you live in Philadelphia there are many ways for you to get involved with this effort and reap the benefits of solar technology on a personal and communal level.

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