Every expert in the energy sector understands renewable energy and how prevalent it’s becoming across all industries and the world. Governments and citizens are growing more concerned about the looming climate crisis, as the negative impacts of climate change are ever-present.
In the coming years, an increasing number of residential properties will likely rely on renewable energy systems. With more countries setting ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions to combat climate change, how will homeowners incorporate renewable energy into their homes?
The Pressing Threat of Climate Change
Climate change and its effects on the planet and human health is one of the most pressing issues facing society today.
Various human activities are exacerbating the climate crisis, such as the use of fossil fuels, deforestation, the increasing demand for energy, and industrial agriculture practices.
Some of the effects are already noticeable – certain regions of the world report melting glaciers, rising sea levels, increasing temperatures, and more frequent and devastating natural disasters. As a result, a growing number of consumers are becoming eco-friendly, sustainability-minded, and environment-conscious.
These consumers follow sustainable practices such as recycling and composting, buying an electric vehicle (EV), or using LED lightbulbs. In addition, they’re becoming increasingly interested in the potential benefits of using renewable energy to power their homes.
Today’s Residential Renewable Energy Market
In 2020 alone, the U.S. residential electricity sector consumed over 1,400 terawatt hours of electricity, according to Statista. A single terawatt hour is 1 trillion watts, and the U.S. accounted for 17% of the world’s energy consumption that year.
Because homes in the U.S. – and worldwide – consume vast amounts of energy, it’s likely the renewable energy market will continue on its steady path of growth. At the federal level, the current administration is supportive of policies designed to combat climate change.
Renewables will find their way into the energy industry and the homes of millions of Americans due to the declining cost of related technologies. As various renewables become more affordable, the average consumer will be better able to incorporate them into their homes.
Potential Renewable-Based Systems in the Home
In which systems within a residence can renewable energy play an important role?
Some of the core systems within a home include plumbing, electrical, water, and heating and cooling systems. In recent decades, these systems have become more energy-efficient. For example, standard toilets have a flushing capacity range of 0.6 to 4.5 gallons, whereas more efficient models use no more than 1.6 gallons.
Energy-efficient systems are eco-friendly options that also offer cost savings. Renewable energy systems will become increasingly popular, as they offer critical benefits for homeowners and the environment.
Top Renewable Energy Sources in Future Homes
The core renewable energy sources that will penetrate the residential property market are solar, wind, geothermal, and hydroelectric power. Learn how these renewables will impact homes in the next couple of decades.
Solar
Solar power can be used in residential buildings in a variety of ways. Solar panels have become increasingly popular over the years – the industry installed 4.6 gigawatts (GWdc) of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity in the second quarter of 2022 alone. Small PV systems and solar batteries to store energy for future use will also grow in popularity.
Wind
Small wind-electric systems are cost-effective options to incorporate into homes. Aside from the large turbines used in industrial settings, smaller wind turbines can be effective for residential properties. Wind power can also be used for water pumping on ranches and farms to improve the agricultural industry.
Geothermal
Geothermal energy – harvested heat from underground – can be effectively used in residential heating and cooling systems. Currently, geothermal energy only makes up a small portion of the energy capacity in the country. However, organizations like Google and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are exploring the potential of enhanced geothermal systems. These systems would access even more energy from under the planet’s surface.
Hydropower
Micro-hydropower systems can typically generate up to 100 kilowatts of electricity. In contrast, a 10-kilowatt system could provide enough energy to power a large home or even a small resort. Hydropower is not accessible in every area, but it can offer steady energy output and cost-effectiveness in areas where the landscape makes it feasible.
In addition to these standalone technologies, hybrid systems could become a staple in the renewable energy sector in the future.
Preparing for the Renewable Energy Revolution
Energy professionals should prepare for the more widespread use of renewables. Installing and maintaining renewable energy systems in homes will become increasingly important during the energy transition. Based on current projections, renewable energy sources will grow and become more widely used by homeowners across the country.
About the author: Jane works as an environmental and energy writer. She is also the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co
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