The news cycle is dominated by climate change, new bills in Congress, and the recent United Nations conference. There are many ways you can help save our planet. Solar energy can help reduce your home’s dependence on fossil fuels. However, only 4 percent of American households use it.
SunPower recently surveyed American homeowners to learn more about the motivations for choosing solar power. Blackouts and increasing electricity bills drive the purchase of solar power and energy storage. We also discovered that the Midwest is a promising region for solar energy adoption. SunPower announced the purchase of Blue Raven Solar in response to America’s heartland.
The data revealed some interesting trends regarding different generations’ approaches to climate change.
What do different generations think about solar power?
What generation believes they are the most environmentally conscious?
Are Millennials more likely than Baby Boomers to recycle?
SunPower examined the Energy Sense Index* data to find answers for everyone from Generation Z to Boomers. Understanding the beliefs and preferences of each generation regarding environmental actions will allow us to work together to reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate the effects of climate change. We have the data, and some of it may not be what you expected.
Millennials, Gen Z, are most concerned about the environment
Respondents were asked how often they worry about the environmental impact of their household. The results show that Millennials and Gen Zers, born in the 1980s or later, worry about their environment. 73% worry about it at least once per month.
Baby Boomers, born between 1946-1964, aren’t as worried. 65% of them say they worry less than once per month. Gen Xers, born between 1965-1976 and bridging that gap between Baby Boomers, are in the middle. 56% worry a few times per week or more, while 37% worry less than once a fortnight or never.
However, Baby Boomers are more likely than others to act.
Given the varying levels, you would think younger generations are taking more actions than the Baby Boomers and Gen Xers to protect the environment. Surprisingly, 83% of Baby Boomers recycle, 61% reuse shopping bags and 26% compost. This is a higher percentage than any generation.
Millennials and Gen Zers are the most likely to donate to environmental groups (40%), eat plant-based diets (31%), or own electric cars (24%).
Surprisingly, the Gen Xers had the highest proportion of people who were not likely to take any steps (10%)
Even though Boomers often underestimate the impact they have on…
Reality is not always what you perceive. 79% of Millennials, Gen Zers and others were asked if they thought they were more or less environmentally aware than their neighbors. However, Gen Xers (57%) and Baby Boomers (37%) think they are more environmentally aware than their neighbors. Baby Boomers may be underestimating their recycling habits.
Millennials and Gen Z lead the charge on solar energy.
A home solar system that includes storage is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. For example, a typical solar home in Connecticut provides the same reductions as planting 150 trees each year. Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge for solar homes. 70% of those who have solar panels in their homes are millennials. 18% of panel owners are members of Generation X, and only 12% are Baby Boomers. However, 52% said they would consider going solar. This is a good sign for the future.