Increase in Solar Power Following the Japan Earthquake

Two things have resulted in an increase in solar power following the Japan Earthquake of a magnitude 9.0. The first is the scare surrounding its nuclear reactors, which has left many looking to rely on cleaner renewable energy resources, and the second is the need for reliable power when grid systems are down. Mobile solar power to charge cell phones, GPS devices and even refrigerators can literally be the difference between life and death when power is out.

Solar Poweron the uprise following the Japan Earthquake

While Japan struggles to recover after the disaster, other countries are taking note and hoping to lay the groundwork for safer renewable energy options, beyond nuclear. The State of California, in particular is looking closely at two of its own operating nuclear reactors – Diablo Canyon and San Onofre – which may be vulnerable to earthquakes.

Quite simply, the Japan Earthquake may be causing a major shift in the way we approach alternative energy in the future. In fact, some experts believe that nuclear power will likely play a smaller role in the future energy market, while solar and wind energy are much more secure, safer and easy to distribute. But others, may still be placing stock in nuclear, despite fears.

Finally, the location of the earthquake will impact solar energy in general. Japan currently makes up a quarter of the world’s solar production. In the days following the natural disaster, the following plants shut down production of solar panels: Sanyo, Panasonic, the Kyocera Corp. and Sharp. Even when the workers return to the factories, the power grid still cannot transport clean solar electricity to the people that need it most.

More solar cities in Japan in the future?

Overall, the governments of Japan, China, France, Italy and Germany may add to the solar energy shares in their renewable energy portfolios in the coming months. At the same time, plans for new nuclear power plants around the world are being scrapped. All this momentum could result in promotion of solar power, and a cleaner, safer future. If there is a single silver lining from the terrible Japan Earthquake tragedy, perhaps this foundation of hope is it.

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