Solar has quickly become one of the greatest resources in the transition to clean energy. Falling prices, an increased availability of community solar programs, and technology that is more efficient than ever are all major factors in the rise of this renewable energy resource. However, some of the most important variables that make solar so attractive are economic.
Solar manufacturing and installation requires skilled labor, and is quickly creating stable, well paying jobs in cities throughout the US. The resurgence of manufacturing jobs is bringing pride back to many areas hard-hit by the economic woes created over decades of outsourcing. The influx of jobs, and money, is contributing to a new bipartisan climate of cooperation, as mayors and elected officials seek to take advantage of the economic boom that solar jobs can create.
As one supporter of solar put it, “solar energy isn’t just good for the polar bears, it’s good for the middle class and the working class.” Now, more than ever, it is incumbent upon city and community leaders to communicate with residents in their cities about the many benefits that come from solar investments. Transform your community into a climate leader by joining Path to Positive Communities!
'Solar energy isn’t just good for polar bears, it’s good for the working class'
By Luke Buckmaster | The Guardian | February 16, 2016
There are many ways to frame a documentary about solar power; many ways to go about extolling the virtues of clean energy. The most obvious would be to pursue the following line: hit hard by the effects of climate change, the world can save itself by building a sustainable future in renewable technology.
It’s also a message that falls squarely in the tell-us-something-we-don’t-know box.
Many moons have passed – and much discussion has transpired – since Al Gore brought us the world’s first blockbuster powerpoint presentation, 2006’s An Inconvenient Truth. That film ended with what is now considered a cliché in environmental documentaries: a “what can I do to help?” section intended to turn audiences into campaigners.
