When we can generate electricity from the most abundant natural resource, the sun, the United States and many other countries are losing money by consuming fossil fuels and fracking, which accelerates global warming. The sun provides us with massive amounts of solar energy. Photovoltaic energy converts sunlight directly into electricity; it builds photovoltaic technology to produce energy at a low cost; and it produces energy on a larger scale for use as heat in homes, companies, and schools. Wind turbines, on the other hand, may be utilized to generate more power in places with less sunlight. Pollution, acid rain, and greenhouse gas emissions are all reduced by wind energy. Because wind energy is a clean energy source, it reduces pollution. And battle with health care and environmental costs associated with air pollution.

Imagine growing up in a community where garbage dumps outnumber food stores. Low-quality air and ways of life have been targeted at communities of color and low-income residents, such as the South Bronx and Northern Manhattan, endangering our physical, mental, and emotional health. Unfortunately, for far too many residents in the South Bronx and other metropolitan neighborhoods around the United States, this scene is not a temporary fad, but rather an everyday occurrence. Although these living conditions are detrimental to the health, safety, and overall quality of life of South Bronx inhabitants, the most concerning conclusion is that no action is being made to solve the problem. The major reason for this is that little action is being taken and our energy choices are not sustainable; adopting a more sustainable way of life can help with this problem. The main sources of energy come from fossil fuels, nuclear power, and renewable energy sources. Implementing new renewable energy sources into NYC such as photovoltaic solar energy and wind energy. 

We all know that the sun’s energy can be used to generate heat and light, but it can also be used to generate electricity. Photovoltaic energy traps direct sunlight energy using solar panel technology; each solar panel is made with a negative and positive layer that creates an electric field. The generated electricity is multiplied by the number of cells in each panel and the number of panels. Photovoltaic cells are solid materials, such as silicon, that convert light directly into energy. Which according to (Kinier 2008). “Photoelectric effect that causes them to absorb photons of light and release electrons. When these free electrons are captured, an electric current results that can be used as electricity.” When combined, they may provide a significant amount of energy for our daily needs. Some advantages of solar photovoltaic energy include the fact that it provides clean energy with no emissions and does not use water or fossil fuels to generate power. Although this type of technology can be complicated to work with due to the manufacturing process, causing hazardous substances including cadmium and arsenic are used. These environmental consequences are small and easily controllable through recycling and proper disposal. (Huang, Shujuan). The space it takes for solar panels to be put into a city like New York is also worrying, there is a solution placing these solar panels on parking lots and even on street lights can be another solution to this disadvantage. In addition, the cost can be arguable because it can be high at times but it is a one-time investment. The City is also working on giving new ways people can access this type of energy at a lower cost by implementing new programs like “Solar for All” which benefit homeowners and renters who may not be able to access solar energy.

Furthermore, wind energy which is one of the most inexpensive types of energy can be helpful in New York City. Wind turbine electricity does not damage the water we drink or the air we breathe, therefore wind energy equals reduced pollution, acid rain, and greenhouse gas emissions. Wind energy minimizes health care and environmental expenses connected with air pollution since it is a clean energy source. “Instead of using electricity to make wind—like a fan—wind turbines use the wind to make electricity. The wind turns the propeller-like blades of a turbine around a rotor, which spins a generator, which creates electricity.” Making the change to obtain better air quality in these areas like the south Bronx having these types of energies can reduce the carbon footprint and pollution factories and businesses are causing all around the neighborhood. Although there is for sure a lack of space when it comes to having these turbines in the city. The city provides us with offshore wind projects that can be helpful for this cause. (NYSERDA) They can be placed right offshore of New York City since we’re surrounded by water. They can also be placed outside of New York City at farms and have this energy that is being produced transported back to these urban areas.

Finally, solar photovoltaic energy and wind energy combined may be the finest forms of renewable energy since they may improve the air we breathe and our living circumstances. Putting effort into the challenges that surround us can make a difference. Accepting change and working for a better way of life is worthwhile because we all deserve a clean environment and clean air to breathe.

Huang, Shujuan. “Grand Challenges and Opportunities in Photovoltaic Materials and Devices.” Frontiers, 8 Feb. 2021, doi:10.3389/fphot.2021.651766.

“How Do Photovoltaics Work? | Science Mission Directorate.” How Does Photovoltaics Work? | Science Mission Directorate, 6 Aug. 2008, science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2002/solarcells.

“How Do Wind Turbines Work?” Energy.gov, www.energy.gov/eere/wind/how-do-wind-turbines-work.

“Solar for All Means Solar for You.” NYSERDA, nyserda.ny.gov/solarforall.

“NYSERDA.” NYSERDA, www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Offshore-Wind/Focus-Areas/NY-Offshore-Wind-Projects.