Activity 3.2.3.1 Solar Power and Energy Policy

 Six-Point Critical Analysis of Current Event 


1. Exploratory 

The article by Hsu & Kelly (2019) explains how solar energy in Georgia has changed. Even though Georgia isn’t very strict when it comes to renewable energy. A notable example is the solar farm in Hazlehurst which is around 500 acres. This shows that renewable energy is starting to appear in more rural areas. The video from Silicon Ranch showcases that not only is it focusing on clean energy, but also focusing on farming. 

The growth that Georgia has had in solar energy proves that there are many ways to promote renewable energy other than state mandates. This shows that policies may not always be needed for progression and change. Comparing Georgia with other states, for example the way California's state mandates show how the differences can accomplish the same goals in the end. 

2. Diagnostic 

The main reason why Solar energy is growing in Georgia is mainly because of the economics in that state. The state of Georgia had decided to invest in solar due to the fact it made more sense financially to do so. For example, the lower cost of the panels themselves and the money saved yearly by using solar instead of other energy sources. Another addition to the growth of solar in Georgia would be the partnership that it has with Silicon Ranch which made it more accomplishable to be able to use solar on farms. 

 

3. Cause and Effect 

If more states decided that they wanted to follow in the same footsteps as Georgia with going solar and taking the same approach, it could mean better economic situations and much more. It would also lower the amounts of carbon emissions and bring more jobs to those states with the need to install and maintain the solar equipment.  

4. Priority 

I would say that the most important takeaway from this would be the benefits of promoting clean energy in these areas. Another thing would be increases in the economy that would bring good change. Georgia is a great example and shows that solar energy is good for the environment and can be very benefitable, and shows other companies it’s worth investing in. 

 

5. Application 

In my opinion, I believe this applies to society because of how renewable energy doesn't have to depend on the government to work, and how these companies are working with farmers to benefit not only themselves but the environment as well. If I were in that situation in other states, I would consider the use of renewable energy, because of all the benefits. I would also say this benefits me and society in the long run because of the potential to lower costs and change the environment for the better. This just shows the difference that businesses can make to help and benefit the world. 

 

6. Critical 

Before watching the video my thoughts on renewable solar energy were somewhat negative, I had thought it was a really expensive method and could only be accomplished in higher-income governments. After seeing the success that Georgia has had with solar energy and how the use of partnerships with businesses can make such a difference. Even though there are other things to take into consideration such as weather and climate conditions, watching this video changed my perspective.  

Work Cited 

Assisted by Grammarly  

Hsu, A., & Kelly, M. L. (2019, June 24). How solar grew in Georgia despite lack of mandates on renewable energy. National Public Radio. https://www.npr.org/2019/06/24/733795962/how-georgia-became-a-surprising-bright-spot-in-the-u-s-solar-industry 

Silicon Ranch. (2017). Silicon Ranch Hazlehurst II Project on Georgia Farm Bureau TVLinks to an external site. [Video]. Vimeo. https://vimeo.com/217896697 

 

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