2.03 Задания 12-18. Задания на полное понимание прочитанного текста

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Do you believe in climate change?

 

This may seem like an odd question for a climate scientist to ask, but it is one I am constantly asked now. The typical discussion starts: "I know that the climate is changing, but hasn't it always changed through natural cycles?" Then they will often give an example, such as the medieval warm period to prove their point.

 

Those asking the question include a wide range of people I meet in the pub, friends, politicians and, increasingly, even some of those active in sustainable development and the renewable energy businesses. What I find interesting is that I have known many of these people for a long time and they never asked me this before.

 

Recent studies show that public acceptance of the scientific evidence for man-made climate change has decreased. However, the change is not that great. The difference I find in talking to people is that they feel better able to express their doubts.

 

This is very hard for scientists to understand. The scientific evidence that humanity is having an effect on the climate is overwhelming and increasing every year. Yet public perception of this is confused. People modify their beliefs about uncomfortable truth, they may have become bored of constantly hearing about climate change; or external factors such as the financial crisis may have played a role.

 

Around three years ago, I raised the issue of the way that science can be misused. In some cases scare stories in the media were over-hyping climate change, and I think we are paying the price for this now with a reaction the other way. I was concerned then that science is not always presented objectively by the media. What I don't think any of us appreciated at the time was the depth of disconnect between the scientific process and the public.

 

Which brings me to the question, should you believe in climate change? The first point to make is that it's not something you should believe or not believe in – this is a matter of science and therefore of evidence – and there's a lot of it out there. On an issue this important, I think people should look at that evidence and make their own mind up. We are often very influenced by our own personal experience. After a couple of cold winters in the UK, the common question was: "Has climate change stopped?" despite that fact that many other regions of the world were experiencing record warm temperatures. And 2010 was one of the warmest years on record. For real evidence of climate change, we have to look at the bigger picture.

 

You can see research by the Met Office that shows the evidence of man-made warming is even stronger than it was when the last report was published. A whole range of different datasets and independent analyses show the world is warming. There is a broad consensus that over the last half-century, warming has been rapid, and man-made greenhouse gas emissions are very likely to be the cause.

 

Ultimately, as the planet continues to warm, the issue of whether you believe in climate change will become more and more irrelevant. We will all experience the impacts of climate change in some way, so the evidence will be there in plain sight.

 

The more appropriate questions for today are how will our climate change and how can we prepare for those changes? That's why it's important that climate scientists continue their work, and continue sharing their evidence and research so people can stay up to date – and make up their own minds.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Do you believe in climate change?

 

This may seem like an odd question for a climate scientist to ask, but it is one I am constantly asked now. The typical discussion starts: "I know that the climate is changing, but hasn't it always changed through natural cycles?" Then they will often give an example, such as the medieval warm period to prove their point.

 

Those asking the question include a wide range of people I meet in the pub, friends, politicians and, increasingly, even some of those active in sustainable development and the renewable energy businesses. What I find interesting is that I have known many of these people for a long time and they never asked me this before.

 

Recent studies show that public acceptance of the scientific evidence for man-made climate change has decreased. However, the change is not that great. The difference I find in talking to people is that they feel better able to express their doubts.

 

This is very hard for scientists to understand. The scientific evidence that humanity is having an effect on the climate is overwhelming and increasing every year. Yet public perception of this is confused. People modify their beliefs about uncomfortable truth, they may have become bored of constantly hearing about climate change; or external factors such as the financial crisis may have played a role.

 

Around three years ago, I raised the issue of the way that science can be misused. In some cases scare stories in the media were over-hyping climate change, and I think we are paying the price for this now with a reaction the other way. I was concerned then that science is not always presented objectively by the media. What I don't think any of us appreciated at the time was the depth of disconnect between the scientific process and the public.

 

Which brings me to the question, should you believe in climate change? The first point to make is that it's not something you should believe or not believe in – this is a matter of science and therefore of evidence – and there's a lot of it out there. On an issue this important, I think people should look at that evidence and make their own mind up. We are often very influenced by our own personal experience. After a couple of cold winters in the UK, the common question was: "Has climate change stopped?" despite that fact that many other regions of the world were experiencing record warm temperatures. And 2010 was one of the warmest years on record. For real evidence of climate change, we have to look at the bigger picture.

 

You can see research by the Met Office that shows the evidence of man-made warming is even stronger than it was when the last report was published. A whole range of different datasets and independent analyses show the world is warming. There is a broad consensus that over the last half-century, warming has been rapid, and man-made greenhouse gas emissions are very likely to be the cause.

 

Ultimately, as the planet continues to warm, the issue of whether you believe in climate change will become more and more irrelevant. We will all experience the impacts of climate change in some way, so the evidence will be there in plain sight.

 

The more appropriate questions for today are how will our climate change and how can we prepare for those changes? That's why it's important that climate scientists continue their work, and continue sharing their evidence and research so people can stay up to date – and make up their own minds.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Do you believe in climate change?

 

This may seem like an odd question for a climate scientist to ask, but it is one I am constantly asked now. The typical discussion starts: "I know that the climate is changing, but hasn't it always changed through natural cycles?" Then they will often give an example, such as the medieval warm period to prove their point.

 

Those asking the question include a wide range of people I meet in the pub, friends, politicians and, increasingly, even some of those active in sustainable development and the renewable energy businesses. What I find interesting is that I have known many of these people for a long time and they never asked me this before.

 

Recent studies show that public acceptance of the scientific evidence for man-made climate change has decreased. However, the change is not that great. The difference I find in talking to people is that they feel better able to express their doubts.

 

This is very hard for scientists to understand. The scientific evidence that humanity is having an effect on the climate is overwhelming and increasing every year. Yet public perception of this is confused. People modify their beliefs about uncomfortable truth, they may have become bored of constantly hearing about climate change; or external factors such as the financial crisis may have played a role.

 

Around three years ago, I raised the issue of the way that science can be misused. In some cases scare stories in the media were over-hyping climate change, and I think we are paying the price for this now with a reaction the other way. I was concerned then that science is not always presented objectively by the media. What I don't think any of us appreciated at the time was the depth of disconnect between the scientific process and the public.

 

Which brings me to the question, should you believe in climate change? The first point to make is that it's not something you should believe or not believe in – this is a matter of science and therefore of evidence – and there's a lot of it out there. On an issue this important, I think people should look at that evidence and make their own mind up. We are often very influenced by our own personal experience. After a couple of cold winters in the UK, the common question was: "Has climate change stopped?" despite that fact that many other regions of the world were experiencing record warm temperatures. And 2010 was one of the warmest years on record. For real evidence of climate change, we have to look at the bigger picture.

 

You can see research by the Met Office that shows the evidence of man-made warming is even stronger than it was when the last report was published. A whole range of different datasets and independent analyses show the world is warming. There is a broad consensus that over the last half-century, warming has been rapid, and man-made greenhouse gas emissions are very likely to be the cause.

 

Ultimately, as the planet continues to warm, the issue of whether you believe in climate change will become more and more irrelevant. We will all experience the impacts of climate change in some way, so the evidence will be there in plain sight.

 

The more appropriate questions for today are how will our climate change and how can we prepare for those changes? That's why it's important that climate scientists continue their work, and continue sharing their evidence and research so people can stay up to date – and make up their own minds.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Solar power creates sunny outlook for everyone

 

My parents chose to buy and install solar panels on our home. The process was absolutely painless. Our bill out after this first month was $100 less than we budgeted for, which, needless to say, is very nice. I never thought we would wait for our electric bill to come, but now we welcome it.

 

Solar power produces no harmful emissions to the environment. In addition to being ecofriendly, solar energy is renewable, abundant, sustainable, not needing much effort or money, and always improving. For as long as the sun is alive, it is possible for us to get solar energy, no we should use it.

 

With major companies such as Google and Amazon using it, solar energy is earning its place in the sun. Renewable energy (solar power, wind power, etc.) has gone up in the U.S. energy mix greatly over the past 10 years. Because big businesses are taking advantage of solar energy, many of their suppliers have gone down the same path. Apple reported last month that because of its 100 percent commitment to renewable energy, nearly two dozen suppliers of batteries, keyboards, and lenses have made the same thing.

 

But solar power doesn't have to be limited to businesses, and it shouldn't be. Using solar energy in houses and at colleges is an easy way for us to assist in saving the nature. Powering a home by the sun is not much more expensive than paying a regular electric bill, and just a few extra dollars could help save the environment. Many homeowners face anxiety when it comes to their electricity bills because, in moat cases, there is nothing you can do to control your utility electricity rate. While the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade, the cost of electricity has risen by about five percent, and that trend in rising electric cost is expected to continue. Going solar puts you in the driver's seat when it comes to energy generation.

 

Using solar power at colleges is certainly beneficial to the environment, but it would also be advantageous to the households themselves. The average home sale price increases if solar panels are included. A study concludes that "homes with solar panels sell 20 percent faster and for 17 percent more money".

 

Colleges can be benefactors for solar energy, too. If the college's newest residence hall were to go entirely solar, students would only pay roughly 52 extra cents per year, given that the residence hall is filled to capacity.

 

For colleges, investing in clean-energy projects would be a large pull for many students. As a generation highly affected by climate change, young people are interested in making a difference. A survey found that almost half of young people think climate change and the destruction of nature is the most critical issue, followed by large scale conflicts or wars and inequality.

 

Colleges are quite equipped to lead the solar-energy change (flat roofs, high population, eta). Our college specifically has already invested in solar-energy projects on campus. By continuing to increase the number of solar-powered buildings on campus, the conversation around solar energy could be seriously redirected.

 

With its benefits rapidly multiplying for all parties involved in its use, it is solar energy's time to shine. 

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Solar power creates sunny outlook for everyone

 

My parents chose to buy and install solar panels on our home. The process was absolutely painless. Our bill out after this first month was $100 less than we budgeted for, which, needless to say, is very nice. I never thought we would wait for our electric bill to come, but now we welcome it.

 

Solar power produces no harmful emissions to the environment. In addition to being ecofriendly, solar energy is renewable, abundant, sustainable, not needing much effort or money, and always improving. For as long as the sun is alive, it is possible for us to get solar energy, no we should use it.

 

With major companies such as Google and Amazon using it, solar energy is earning its place in the sun. Renewable energy (solar power, wind power, etc.) has gone up in the U.S. energy mix greatly over the past 10 years. Because big businesses are taking advantage of solar energy, many of their suppliers have gone down the same path. Apple reported last month that because of its 100 percent commitment to renewable energy, nearly two dozen suppliers of batteries, keyboards, and lenses have made the same thing.

 

But solar power doesn't have to be limited to businesses, and it shouldn't be. Using solar energy in houses and at colleges is an easy way for us to assist in saving the nature. Powering a home by the sun is not much more expensive than paying a regular electric bill, and just a few extra dollars could help save the environment. Many homeowners face anxiety when it comes to their electricity bills because, in moat cases, there is nothing you can do to control your utility electricity rate. While the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade, the cost of electricity has risen by about five percent, and that trend in rising electric cost is expected to continue. Going solar puts you in the driver's seat when it comes to energy generation.

 

Using solar power at colleges is certainly beneficial to the environment, but it would also be advantageous to the households themselves. The average home sale price increases if solar panels are included. A study concludes that "homes with solar panels sell 20 percent faster and for 17 percent more money".

 

Colleges can be benefactors for solar energy, too. If the college's newest residence hall were to go entirely solar, students would only pay roughly 52 extra cents per year, given that the residence hall is filled to capacity.

 

For colleges, investing in clean-energy projects would be a large pull for many students. As a generation highly affected by climate change, young people are interested in making a difference. A survey found that almost half of young people think climate change and the destruction of nature is the most critical issue, followed by large scale conflicts or wars and inequality.

 

Colleges are quite equipped to lead the solar-energy change (flat roofs, high population, eta). Our college specifically has already invested in solar-energy projects on campus. By continuing to increase the number of solar-powered buildings on campus, the conversation around solar energy could be seriously redirected.

 

With its benefits rapidly multiplying for all parties involved in its use, it is solar energy's time to shine. 

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Solar power creates sunny outlook for everyone

 

My parents chose to buy and install solar panels on our home. The process was absolutely painless. Our bill out after this first month was $100 less than we budgeted for, which, needless to say, is very nice. I never thought we would wait for our electric bill to come, but now we welcome it.

 

Solar power produces no harmful emissions to the environment. In addition to being ecofriendly, solar energy is renewable, abundant, sustainable, not needing much effort or money, and always improving. For as long as the sun is alive, it is possible for us to get solar energy, no we should use it.

 

With major companies such as Google and Amazon using it, solar energy is earning its place in the sun. Renewable energy (solar power, wind power, etc.) has gone up in the U.S. energy mix greatly over the past 10 years. Because big businesses are taking advantage of solar energy, many of their suppliers have gone down the same path. Apple reported last month that because of its 100 percent commitment to renewable energy, nearly two dozen suppliers of batteries, keyboards, and lenses have made the same thing.

 

But solar power doesn't have to be limited to businesses, and it shouldn't be. Using solar energy in houses and at colleges is an easy way for us to assist in saving the nature. Powering a home by the sun is not much more expensive than paying a regular electric bill, and just a few extra dollars could help save the environment. Many homeowners face anxiety when it comes to their electricity bills because, in moat cases, there is nothing you can do to control your utility electricity rate. While the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade, the cost of electricity has risen by about five percent, and that trend in rising electric cost is expected to continue. Going solar puts you in the driver's seat when it comes to energy generation.

 

Using solar power at colleges is certainly beneficial to the environment, but it would also be advantageous to the households themselves. The average home sale price increases if solar panels are included. A study concludes that "homes with solar panels sell 20 percent faster and for 17 percent more money".

 

Colleges can be benefactors for solar energy, too. If the college's newest residence hall were to go entirely solar, students would only pay roughly 52 extra cents per year, given that the residence hall is filled to capacity.

 

For colleges, investing in clean-energy projects would be a large pull for many students. As a generation highly affected by climate change, young people are interested in making a difference. A survey found that almost half of young people think climate change and the destruction of nature is the most critical issue, followed by large scale conflicts or wars and inequality.

 

Colleges are quite equipped to lead the solar-energy change (flat roofs, high population, eta). Our college specifically has already invested in solar-energy projects on campus. By continuing to increase the number of solar-powered buildings on campus, the conversation around solar energy could be seriously redirected.

 

With its benefits rapidly multiplying for all parties involved in its use, it is solar energy's time to shine. 

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Solar power creates sunny outlook for everyone

 

My parents chose to buy and install solar panels on our home. The process was absolutely painless. Our bill out after this first month was $100 less than we budgeted for, which, needless to say, is very nice. I never thought we would wait for our electric bill to come, but now we welcome it.

 

Solar power produces no harmful emissions to the environment. In addition to being ecofriendly, solar energy is renewable, abundant, sustainable, not needing much effort or money, and always improving. For as long as the sun is alive, it is possible for us to get solar energy, no we should use it.

 

With major companies such as Google and Amazon using it, solar energy is earning its place in the sun. Renewable energy (solar power, wind power, etc.) has gone up in the U.S. energy mix greatly over the past 10 years. Because big businesses are taking advantage of solar energy, many of their suppliers have gone down the same path. Apple reported last month that because of its 100 percent commitment to renewable energy, nearly two dozen suppliers of batteries, keyboards, and lenses have made the same thing.

 

But solar power doesn't have to be limited to businesses, and it shouldn't be. Using solar energy in houses and at colleges is an easy way for us to assist in saving the nature. Powering a home by the sun is not much more expensive than paying a regular electric bill, and just a few extra dollars could help save the environment. Many homeowners face anxiety when it comes to their electricity bills because, in moat cases, there is nothing you can do to control your utility electricity rate. While the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade, the cost of electricity has risen by about five percent, and that trend in rising electric cost is expected to continue. Going solar puts you in the driver's seat when it comes to energy generation.

 

Using solar power at colleges is certainly beneficial to the environment, but it would also be advantageous to the households themselves. The average home sale price increases if solar panels are included. A study concludes that "homes with solar panels sell 20 percent faster and for 17 percent more money".

 

Colleges can be benefactors for solar energy, too. If the college's newest residence hall were to go entirely solar, students would only pay roughly 52 extra cents per year, given that the residence hall is filled to capacity.

 

For colleges, investing in clean-energy projects would be a large pull for many students. As a generation highly affected by climate change, young people are interested in making a difference. A survey found that almost half of young people think climate change and the destruction of nature is the most critical issue, followed by large scale conflicts or wars and inequality.

 

Colleges are quite equipped to lead the solar-energy change (flat roofs, high population, eta). Our college specifically has already invested in solar-energy projects on campus. By continuing to increase the number of solar-powered buildings on campus, the conversation around solar energy could be seriously redirected.

 

With its benefits rapidly multiplying for all parties involved in its use, it is solar energy's time to shine. 

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Solar power creates sunny outlook for everyone

 

My parents chose to buy and install solar panels on our home. The process was absolutely painless. Our bill out after this first month was $100 less than we budgeted for, which, needless to say, is very nice. I never thought we would wait for our electric bill to come, but now we welcome it.

 

Solar power produces no harmful emissions to the environment. In addition to being ecofriendly, solar energy is renewable, abundant, sustainable, not needing much effort or money, and always improving. For as long as the sun is alive, it is possible for us to get solar energy, no we should use it.

 

With major companies such as Google and Amazon using it, solar energy is earning its place in the sun. Renewable energy (solar power, wind power, etc.) has gone up in the U.S. energy mix greatly over the past 10 years. Because big businesses are taking advantage of solar energy, many of their suppliers have gone down the same path. Apple reported last month that because of its 100 percent commitment to renewable energy, nearly two dozen suppliers of batteries, keyboards, and lenses have made the same thing.

 

But solar power doesn't have to be limited to businesses, and it shouldn't be. Using solar energy in houses and at colleges is an easy way for us to assist in saving the nature. Powering a home by the sun is not much more expensive than paying a regular electric bill, and just a few extra dollars could help save the environment. Many homeowners face anxiety when it comes to their electricity bills because, in moat cases, there is nothing you can do to control your utility electricity rate. While the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade, the cost of electricity has risen by about five percent, and that trend in rising electric cost is expected to continue. Going solar puts you in the driver's seat when it comes to energy generation.

 

Using solar power at colleges is certainly beneficial to the environment, but it would also be advantageous to the households themselves. The average home sale price increases if solar panels are included. A study concludes that "homes with solar panels sell 20 percent faster and for 17 percent more money".

 

Colleges can be benefactors for solar energy, too. If the college's newest residence hall were to go entirely solar, students would only pay roughly 52 extra cents per year, given that the residence hall is filled to capacity.

 

For colleges, investing in clean-energy projects would be a large pull for many students. As a generation highly affected by climate change, young people are interested in making a difference. A survey found that almost half of young people think climate change and the destruction of nature is the most critical issue, followed by large scale conflicts or wars and inequality.

 

Colleges are quite equipped to lead the solar-energy change (flat roofs, high population, eta). Our college specifically has already invested in solar-energy projects on campus. By continuing to increase the number of solar-powered buildings on campus, the conversation around solar energy could be seriously redirected.

 

With its benefits rapidly multiplying for all parties involved in its use, it is solar energy's time to shine. 

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Solar power creates sunny outlook for everyone

 

My parents chose to buy and install solar panels on our home. The process was absolutely painless. Our bill out after this first month was $100 less than we budgeted for, which, needless to say, is very nice. I never thought we would wait for our electric bill to come, but now we welcome it.

 

Solar power produces no harmful emissions to the environment. In addition to being ecofriendly, solar energy is renewable, abundant, sustainable, not needing much effort or money, and always improving. For as long as the sun is alive, it is possible for us to get solar energy, no we should use it.

 

With major companies such as Google and Amazon using it, solar energy is earning its place in the sun. Renewable energy (solar power, wind power, etc.) has gone up in the U.S. energy mix greatly over the past 10 years. Because big businesses are taking advantage of solar energy, many of their suppliers have gone down the same path. Apple reported last month that because of its 100 percent commitment to renewable energy, nearly two dozen suppliers of batteries, keyboards, and lenses have made the same thing.

 

But solar power doesn't have to be limited to businesses, and it shouldn't be. Using solar energy in houses and at colleges is an easy way for us to assist in saving the nature. Powering a home by the sun is not much more expensive than paying a regular electric bill, and just a few extra dollars could help save the environment. Many homeowners face anxiety when it comes to their electricity bills because, in moat cases, there is nothing you can do to control your utility electricity rate. While the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade, the cost of electricity has risen by about five percent, and that trend in rising electric cost is expected to continue. Going solar puts you in the driver's seat when it comes to energy generation.

 

Using solar power at colleges is certainly beneficial to the environment, but it would also be advantageous to the households themselves. The average home sale price increases if solar panels are included. A study concludes that "homes with solar panels sell 20 percent faster and for 17 percent more money".

 

Colleges can be benefactors for solar energy, too. If the college's newest residence hall were to go entirely solar, students would only pay roughly 52 extra cents per year, given that the residence hall is filled to capacity.

 

For colleges, investing in clean-energy projects would be a large pull for many students. As a generation highly affected by climate change, young people are interested in making a difference. A survey found that almost half of young people think climate change and the destruction of nature is the most critical issue, followed by large scale conflicts or wars and inequality.

 

Colleges are quite equipped to lead the solar-energy change (flat roofs, high population, eta). Our college specifically has already invested in solar-energy projects on campus. By continuing to increase the number of solar-powered buildings on campus, the conversation around solar energy could be seriously redirected.

 

With its benefits rapidly multiplying for all parties involved in its use, it is solar energy's time to shine. 

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Solar power creates sunny outlook for everyone

 

My parents chose to buy and install solar panels on our home. The process was absolutely painless. Our bill out after this first month was $100 less than we budgeted for, which, needless to say, is very nice. I never thought we would wait for our electric bill to come, but now we welcome it.

 

Solar power produces no harmful emissions to the environment. In addition to being ecofriendly, solar energy is renewable, abundant, sustainable, not needing much effort or money, and always improving. For as long as the sun is alive, it is possible for us to get solar energy, no we should use it.

 

With major companies such as Google and Amazon using it, solar energy is earning its place in the sun. Renewable energy (solar power, wind power, etc.) has gone up in the U.S. energy mix greatly over the past 10 years. Because big businesses are taking advantage of solar energy, many of their suppliers have gone down the same path. Apple reported last month that because of its 100 percent commitment to renewable energy, nearly two dozen suppliers of batteries, keyboards, and lenses have made the same thing.

 

But solar power doesn't have to be limited to businesses, and it shouldn't be. Using solar energy in houses and at colleges is an easy way for us to assist in saving the nature. Powering a home by the sun is not much more expensive than paying a regular electric bill, and just a few extra dollars could help save the environment. Many homeowners face anxiety when it comes to their electricity bills because, in moat cases, there is nothing you can do to control your utility electricity rate. While the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade, the cost of electricity has risen by about five percent, and that trend in rising electric cost is expected to continue. Going solar puts you in the driver's seat when it comes to energy generation.

 

Using solar power at colleges is certainly beneficial to the environment, but it would also be advantageous to the households themselves. The average home sale price increases if solar panels are included. A study concludes that "homes with solar panels sell 20 percent faster and for 17 percent more money".

 

Colleges can be benefactors for solar energy, too. If the college's newest residence hall were to go entirely solar, students would only pay roughly 52 extra cents per year, given that the residence hall is filled to capacity.

 

For colleges, investing in clean-energy projects would be a large pull for many students. As a generation highly affected by climate change, young people are interested in making a difference. A survey found that almost half of young people think climate change and the destruction of nature is the most critical issue, followed by large scale conflicts or wars and inequality.

 

Colleges are quite equipped to lead the solar-energy change (flat roofs, high population, eta). Our college specifically has already invested in solar-energy projects on campus. By continuing to increase the number of solar-powered buildings on campus, the conversation around solar energy could be seriously redirected.

 

With its benefits rapidly multiplying for all parties involved in its use, it is solar energy's time to shine. 

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

What it's really like to be a bike commuter

 

No discussion of transportation in New York would be complete without talking about one of the cheapest, easiest and, increasingly, most popular ways of getting around the city — biking.

 

About 450,000 bike trips are taken every day in the five boroughs, with one in five of those trips being taken by someone who's commuting. There are now more than 1,000 bike lanes in the city, a number that has doubled lately compared to what we had a decade ago.

 

I was a freelancer and I literally couldn't afford to take the train some days I had to come into the office, so it made financial sense to invest in a cheap bike. Once I started riding, I preferred it to the train. It was faster and more fun. The best part of biking for me is the joy of experiencing the natural beauty of this island every day, and the feeling of being in control of your own destiny. I know roughly how long it will take me to get from Point A to Point B without issue. It is better than caffeine in the morning and I look forward to the ride home every day no matter how tired I am. I am energized by the experience and it keeps me in shape. It saves me money. It gets my blood and endorphins flowing.

 

Biking is becoming more popular among New Yorkers; 40 % supported the expansion of protected bike paths in the city. This doesn't mean that everything is completely rosy for bike commuters in New York City. While things are getting better, there's more the city could do to make its streets safer.

 

Pedestrians, without a question, are the biggest challenge you face while riding. Drivers are predictable; they follow the rules of traffic and they don't want to hit you any more than you want to hit them. Pedestrians are chaotic. They cross when they shouldn't. They'll walk in bike lanes with their backs facing bike traffic. They'll step into a bike lane three feet in front of you in the middle of the block so you'll have no reaction time — that is precisely what sent me to hospital with a mild concussion a few years back (I was okay, I managed to get back on my bike and ride).

 

Pedestrian education and citations is what we need to make cycling (and walking) safer in New York. Pedestrians, especially tourists, need to know about the existence of bike lanes, and that if they walk into a bike lane, they will get ticketed, hurt, or killed. They should have instructional videos at every major airport. I'm inclined to say folks from non-major U.S. cities are less likely to be familiar with bike lanes than tourists from around the world.

 

I think most people don't respect cyclists and their safety. I don't think most pedestrians and motorists understand what cyclists go through on a daily basis. Everyone should be required to cycle, walk, and drive at least one entire day in this city in order to build some mutual respect. Looking before you open your door, before you cross the street, before you make a U-turn, using your turn signal, etc., would make the cycling experience much safer for everyone — including motorists and pedestrians.

 

The city should be friendlier to cyclists because we reduce car and train traffic exponentially. Those LED signs that tell you that there will be traffic delays? Maybe they can say to check for cyclists before exiting the car.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

What it's really like to be a bike commuter

 

No discussion of transportation in New York would be complete without talking about one of the cheapest, easiest and, increasingly, most popular ways of getting around the city — biking.

 

About 450,000 bike trips are taken every day in the five boroughs, with one in five of those trips being taken by someone who's commuting. There are now more than 1,000 bike lanes in the city, a number that has doubled lately compared to what we had a decade ago.

 

I was a freelancer and I literally couldn't afford to take the train some days I had to come into the office, so it made financial sense to invest in a cheap bike. Once I started riding, I preferred it to the train. It was faster and more fun. The best part of biking for me is the joy of experiencing the natural beauty of this island every day, and the feeling of being in control of your own destiny. I know roughly how long it will take me to get from Point A to Point B without issue. It is better than caffeine in the morning and I look forward to the ride home every day no matter how tired I am. I am energized by the experience and it keeps me in shape. It saves me money. It gets my blood and endorphins flowing.

 

Biking is becoming more popular among New Yorkers; 40 % supported the expansion of protected bike paths in the city. This doesn't mean that everything is completely rosy for bike commuters in New York City. While things are getting better, there's more the city could do to make its streets safer.

 

Pedestrians, without a question, are the biggest challenge you face while riding. Drivers are predictable; they follow the rules of traffic and they don't want to hit you any more than you want to hit them. Pedestrians are chaotic. They cross when they shouldn't. They'll walk in bike lanes with their backs facing bike traffic. They'll step into a bike lane three feet in front of you in the middle of the block so you'll have no reaction time — that is precisely what sent me to hospital with a mild concussion a few years back (I was okay, I managed to get back on my bike and ride).

 

Pedestrian education and citations is what we need to make cycling (and walking) safer in New York. Pedestrians, especially tourists, need to know about the existence of bike lanes, and that if they walk into a bike lane, they will get ticketed, hurt, or killed. They should have instructional videos at every major airport. I'm inclined to say folks from non-major U.S. cities are less likely to be familiar with bike lanes than tourists from around the world.

 

I think most people don't respect cyclists and their safety. I don't think most pedestrians and motorists understand what cyclists go through on a daily basis. Everyone should be required to cycle, walk, and drive at least one entire day in this city in order to build some mutual respect. Looking before you open your door, before you cross the street, before you make a U-turn, using your turn signal, etc., would make the cycling experience much safer for everyone — including motorists and pedestrians.

 

The city should be friendlier to cyclists because we reduce car and train traffic exponentially. Those LED signs that tell you that there will be traffic delays? Maybe they can say to check for cyclists before exiting the car.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

What it's really like to be a bike commuter

 

No discussion of transportation in New York would be complete without talking about one of the cheapest, easiest and, increasingly, most popular ways of getting around the city — biking.

 

About 450,000 bike trips are taken every day in the five boroughs, with one in five of those trips being taken by someone who's commuting. There are now more than 1,000 bike lanes in the city, a number that has doubled lately compared to what we had a decade ago.

 

I was a freelancer and I literally couldn't afford to take the train some days I had to come into the office, so it made financial sense to invest in a cheap bike. Once I started riding, I preferred it to the train. It was faster and more fun. The best part of biking for me is the joy of experiencing the natural beauty of this island every day, and the feeling of being in control of your own destiny. I know roughly how long it will take me to get from Point A to Point B without issue. It is better than caffeine in the morning and I look forward to the ride home every day no matter how tired I am. I am energized by the experience and it keeps me in shape. It saves me money. It gets my blood and endorphins flowing.

 

Biking is becoming more popular among New Yorkers; 40 % supported the expansion of protected bike paths in the city. This doesn't mean that everything is completely rosy for bike commuters in New York City. While things are getting better, there's more the city could do to make its streets safer.

 

Pedestrians, without a question, are the biggest challenge you face while riding. Drivers are predictable; they follow the rules of traffic and they don't want to hit you any more than you want to hit them. Pedestrians are chaotic. They cross when they shouldn't. They'll walk in bike lanes with their backs facing bike traffic. They'll step into a bike lane three feet in front of you in the middle of the block so you'll have no reaction time — that is precisely what sent me to hospital with a mild concussion a few years back (I was okay, I managed to get back on my bike and ride).

 

Pedestrian education and citations is what we need to make cycling (and walking) safer in New York. Pedestrians, especially tourists, need to know about the existence of bike lanes, and that if they walk into a bike lane, they will get ticketed, hurt, or killed. They should have instructional videos at every major airport. I'm inclined to say folks from non-major U.S. cities are less likely to be familiar with bike lanes than tourists from around the world.

 

I think most people don't respect cyclists and their safety. I don't think most pedestrians and motorists understand what cyclists go through on a daily basis. Everyone should be required to cycle, walk, and drive at least one entire day in this city in order to build some mutual respect. Looking before you open your door, before you cross the street, before you make a U-turn, using your turn signal, etc., would make the cycling experience much safer for everyone — including motorists and pedestrians.

 

The city should be friendlier to cyclists because we reduce car and train traffic exponentially. Those LED signs that tell you that there will be traffic delays? Maybe they can say to check for cyclists before exiting the car.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

What it's really like to be a bike commuter

 

No discussion of transportation in New York would be complete without talking about one of the cheapest, easiest and, increasingly, most popular ways of getting around the city — biking.

 

About 450,000 bike trips are taken every day in the five boroughs, with one in five of those trips being taken by someone who's commuting. There are now more than 1,000 bike lanes in the city, a number that has doubled lately compared to what we had a decade ago.

 

I was a freelancer and I literally couldn't afford to take the train some days I had to come into the office, so it made financial sense to invest in a cheap bike. Once I started riding, I preferred it to the train. It was faster and more fun. The best part of biking for me is the joy of experiencing the natural beauty of this island every day, and the feeling of being in control of your own destiny. I know roughly how long it will take me to get from Point A to Point B without issue. It is better than caffeine in the morning and I look forward to the ride home every day no matter how tired I am. I am energized by the experience and it keeps me in shape. It saves me money. It gets my blood and endorphins flowing.

 

Biking is becoming more popular among New Yorkers; 40 % supported the expansion of protected bike paths in the city. This doesn't mean that everything is completely rosy for bike commuters in New York City. While things are getting better, there's more the city could do to make its streets safer.

 

Pedestrians, without a question, are the biggest challenge you face while riding. Drivers are predictable; they follow the rules of traffic and they don't want to hit you any more than you want to hit them. Pedestrians are chaotic. They cross when they shouldn't. They'll walk in bike lanes with their backs facing bike traffic. They'll step into a bike lane three feet in front of you in the middle of the block so you'll have no reaction time — that is precisely what sent me to hospital with a mild concussion a few years back (I was okay, I managed to get back on my bike and ride).

 

Pedestrian education and citations is what we need to make cycling (and walking) safer in New York. Pedestrians, especially tourists, need to know about the existence of bike lanes, and that if they walk into a bike lane, they will get ticketed, hurt, or killed. They should have instructional videos at every major airport. I'm inclined to say folks from non-major U.S. cities are less likely to be familiar with bike lanes than tourists from around the world.

 

I think most people don't respect cyclists and their safety. I don't think most pedestrians and motorists understand what cyclists go through on a daily basis. Everyone should be required to cycle, walk, and drive at least one entire day in this city in order to build some mutual respect. Looking before you open your door, before you cross the street, before you make a U-turn, using your turn signal, etc., would make the cycling experience much safer for everyone — including motorists and pedestrians.

 

The city should be friendlier to cyclists because we reduce car and train traffic exponentially. Those LED signs that tell you that there will be traffic delays? Maybe they can say to check for cyclists before exiting the car.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

What it's really like to be a bike commuter

 

No discussion of transportation in New York would be complete without talking about one of the cheapest, easiest and, increasingly, most popular ways of getting around the city — biking.

 

About 450,000 bike trips are taken every day in the five boroughs, with one in five of those trips being taken by someone who's commuting. There are now more than 1,000 bike lanes in the city, a number that has doubled lately compared to what we had a decade ago.

 

I was a freelancer and I literally couldn't afford to take the train some days I had to come into the office, so it made financial sense to invest in a cheap bike. Once I started riding, I preferred it to the train. It was faster and more fun. The best part of biking for me is the joy of experiencing the natural beauty of this island every day, and the feeling of being in control of your own destiny. I know roughly how long it will take me to get from Point A to Point B without issue. It is better than caffeine in the morning and I look forward to the ride home every day no matter how tired I am. I am energized by the experience and it keeps me in shape. It saves me money. It gets my blood and endorphins flowing.

 

Biking is becoming more popular among New Yorkers; 40 % supported the expansion of protected bike paths in the city. This doesn't mean that everything is completely rosy for bike commuters in New York City. While things are getting better, there's more the city could do to make its streets safer.

 

Pedestrians, without a question, are the biggest challenge you face while riding. Drivers are predictable; they follow the rules of traffic and they don't want to hit you any more than you want to hit them. Pedestrians are chaotic. They cross when they shouldn't. They'll walk in bike lanes with their backs facing bike traffic. They'll step into a bike lane three feet in front of you in the middle of the block so you'll have no reaction time — that is precisely what sent me to hospital with a mild concussion a few years back (I was okay, I managed to get back on my bike and ride).

 

Pedestrian education and citations is what we need to make cycling (and walking) safer in New York. Pedestrians, especially tourists, need to know about the existence of bike lanes, and that if they walk into a bike lane, they will get ticketed, hurt, or killed. They should have instructional videos at every major airport. I'm inclined to say folks from non-major U.S. cities are less likely to be familiar with bike lanes than tourists from around the world.

 

I think most people don't respect cyclists and their safety. I don't think most pedestrians and motorists understand what cyclists go through on a daily basis. Everyone should be required to cycle, walk, and drive at least one entire day in this city in order to build some mutual respect. Looking before you open your door, before you cross the street, before you make a U-turn, using your turn signal, etc., would make the cycling experience much safer for everyone — including motorists and pedestrians.

 

The city should be friendlier to cyclists because we reduce car and train traffic exponentially. Those LED signs that tell you that there will be traffic delays? Maybe they can say to check for cyclists before exiting the car.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

What it's really like to be a bike commuter

 

No discussion of transportation in New York would be complete without talking about one of the cheapest, easiest and, increasingly, most popular ways of getting around the city — biking.

 

About 450,000 bike trips are taken every day in the five boroughs, with one in five of those trips being taken by someone who's commuting. There are now more than 1,000 bike lanes in the city, a number that has doubled lately compared to what we had a decade ago.

 

I was a freelancer and I literally couldn't afford to take the train some days I had to come into the office, so it made financial sense to invest in a cheap bike. Once I started riding, I preferred it to the train. It was faster and more fun. The best part of biking for me is the joy of experiencing the natural beauty of this island every day, and the feeling of being in control of your own destiny. I know roughly how long it will take me to get from Point A to Point B without issue. It is better than caffeine in the morning and I look forward to the ride home every day no matter how tired I am. I am energized by the experience and it keeps me in shape. It saves me money. It gets my blood and endorphins flowing.

 

Biking is becoming more popular among New Yorkers; 40 % supported the expansion of protected bike paths in the city. This doesn't mean that everything is completely rosy for bike commuters in New York City. While things are getting better, there's more the city could do to make its streets safer.

 

Pedestrians, without a question, are the biggest challenge you face while riding. Drivers are predictable; they follow the rules of traffic and they don't want to hit you any more than you want to hit them. Pedestrians are chaotic. They cross when they shouldn't. They'll walk in bike lanes with their backs facing bike traffic. They'll step into a bike lane three feet in front of you in the middle of the block so you'll have no reaction time — that is precisely what sent me to hospital with a mild concussion a few years back (I was okay, I managed to get back on my bike and ride).

 

Pedestrian education and citations is what we need to make cycling (and walking) safer in New York. Pedestrians, especially tourists, need to know about the existence of bike lanes, and that if they walk into a bike lane, they will get ticketed, hurt, or killed. They should have instructional videos at every major airport. I'm inclined to say folks from non-major U.S. cities are less likely to be familiar with bike lanes than tourists from around the world.

 

I think most people don't respect cyclists and their safety. I don't think most pedestrians and motorists understand what cyclists go through on a daily basis. Everyone should be required to cycle, walk, and drive at least one entire day in this city in order to build some mutual respect. Looking before you open your door, before you cross the street, before you make a U-turn, using your turn signal, etc., would make the cycling experience much safer for everyone — including motorists and pedestrians.

 

The city should be friendlier to cyclists because we reduce car and train traffic exponentially. Those LED signs that tell you that there will be traffic delays? Maybe they can say to check for cyclists before exiting the car.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

What it's really like to be a bike commuter

 

No discussion of transportation in New York would be complete without talking about one of the cheapest, easiest and, increasingly, most popular ways of getting around the city — biking.

 

About 450,000 bike trips are taken every day in the five boroughs, with one in five of those trips being taken by someone who's commuting. There are now more than 1,000 bike lanes in the city, a number that has doubled lately compared to what we had a decade ago.

 

I was a freelancer and I literally couldn't afford to take the train some days I had to come into the office, so it made financial sense to invest in a cheap bike. Once I started riding, I preferred it to the train. It was faster and more fun. The best part of biking for me is the joy of experiencing the natural beauty of this island every day, and the feeling of being in control of your own destiny. I know roughly how long it will take me to get from Point A to Point B without issue. It is better than caffeine in the morning and I look forward to the ride home every day no matter how tired I am. I am energized by the experience and it keeps me in shape. It saves me money. It gets my blood and endorphins flowing.

 

Biking is becoming more popular among New Yorkers; 40 % supported the expansion of protected bike paths in the city. This doesn't mean that everything is completely rosy for bike commuters in New York City. While things are getting better, there's more the city could do to make its streets safer.

 

Pedestrians, without a question, are the biggest challenge you face while riding. Drivers are predictable; they follow the rules of traffic and they don't want to hit you any more than you want to hit them. Pedestrians are chaotic. They cross when they shouldn't. They'll walk in bike lanes with their backs facing bike traffic. They'll step into a bike lane three feet in front of you in the middle of the block so you'll have no reaction time — that is precisely what sent me to hospital with a mild concussion a few years back (I was okay, I managed to get back on my bike and ride).

 

Pedestrian education and citations is what we need to make cycling (and walking) safer in New York. Pedestrians, especially tourists, need to know about the existence of bike lanes, and that if they walk into a bike lane, they will get ticketed, hurt, or killed. They should have instructional videos at every major airport. I'm inclined to say folks from non-major U.S. cities are less likely to be familiar with bike lanes than tourists from around the world.

 

I think most people don't respect cyclists and their safety. I don't think most pedestrians and motorists understand what cyclists go through on a daily basis. Everyone should be required to cycle, walk, and drive at least one entire day in this city in order to build some mutual respect. Looking before you open your door, before you cross the street, before you make a U-turn, using your turn signal, etc., would make the cycling experience much safer for everyone — including motorists and pedestrians.

 

The city should be friendlier to cyclists because we reduce car and train traffic exponentially. Those LED signs that tell you that there will be traffic delays? Maybe they can say to check for cyclists before exiting the car.

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Going solar

 

Is solar a smart long-term investment that can reduce your carbon footprint? Absolutely — and everybody from the Department of Energy to Leonardo DiCaprio can back it up. But even something as trendy as solar can have downsides. Let's break down the top perks and quirks of going solar.

 

The top benefit of solar panels is pretty clear. When you install solar power for your home, you generate your own electricity, become less reliant on your electric utility and reduce your monthly electric bill. A solar panel system typically has a 25-30-year lifespan, which means that you can out your electricity costs for decades to come by going solar. Also the cost of solar is dropping across the nation. The next point is that it improves the value of your home. The recent studies found that property values increase after solar is installed. Moreover, it can pay you money while you are earning back your investment. Due to a number of awesome solar incentives in the U.S., solar panels can actually turn you a profit in addition to generating bill savings that pay off the cost of the system.

 

Then, you have to consider the volatile nature of electricity prices and determine what utility rates will be in years to come. When you compare the coat of utility electricity with home solar, you should keep in mind that you can expect electricity rates to increase annually. Over the past years, national electricity costs have increased at a rate of 2.2 % per year. So this is an added incentive for solar: when you generate your own energy with a rooftop system, you're taking control of energy costs so that you are no longer a victim to variable utility rates. 

 

It reduces carbon emissions and helps move towards energy independence. As the world searches for the most cost-effective ways to reduce our carbon output in the face of global climate change, solar energy has become a trendy resource for a good reason and perhaps a small victory giving us the right to celebrate Earth Day.

 

But you should keep in mind that it doesn't work for every type of roof. Certain roofing materials used in older or historical homes can be difficult for solar installers to work with. In addition, many homes and apartment buildings have skylights or other rooftop additions like roof decks that can make the solar installation process difficult or costly. In the long run, however, this shouldn't be a barrier. If your home does not qualify for a rooftop solar system, you still have options: ground mounted solar panels or buying a share in a community solar garden can get you around this drawback of solar energy. Well, not many drawbacks, yeah?

 

After reviewing our pros and cons of solar energy, there are some clear takeaways. Rooftop solar panels aren't the perfect fit for everyone, but that's okay. Like any other home efficiency product, solar panels provide clear benefits to property owners that are in need of energy upgrades and electricity bill reduction. Not everyone fits that description. Solar energy should be thought of as an investment: a low-risk investment with major returns, but a hefty investment nonetheless.

 

We are moving towards clean energy, and solar is our cheapest option. There is nothing unclear about our energy future if we want to get rid of fossil fuels and move to renewables. Solar is the most scalable, consumer-friendly solution. 

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Going solar

 

Is solar a smart long-term investment that can reduce your carbon footprint? Absolutely — and everybody from the Department of Energy to Leonardo DiCaprio can back it up. But even something as trendy as solar can have downsides. Let's break down the top perks and quirks of going solar.

 

The top benefit of solar panels is pretty clear. When you install solar power for your home, you generate your own electricity, become less reliant on your electric utility and reduce your monthly electric bill. A solar panel system typically has a 25-30-year lifespan, which means that you can out your electricity costs for decades to come by going solar. Also the cost of solar is dropping across the nation. The next point is that it improves the value of your home. The recent studies found that property values increase after solar is installed. Moreover, it can pay you money while you are earning back your investment. Due to a number of awesome solar incentives in the U.S., solar panels can actually turn you a profit in addition to generating bill savings that pay off the cost of the system.

 

Then, you have to consider the volatile nature of electricity prices and determine what utility rates will be in years to come. When you compare the coat of utility electricity with home solar, you should keep in mind that you can expect electricity rates to increase annually. Over the past years, national electricity costs have increased at a rate of 2.2 % per year. So this is an added incentive for solar: when you generate your own energy with a rooftop system, you're taking control of energy costs so that you are no longer a victim to variable utility rates. 

 

It reduces carbon emissions and helps move towards energy independence. As the world searches for the most cost-effective ways to reduce our carbon output in the face of global climate change, solar energy has become a trendy resource for a good reason and perhaps a small victory giving us the right to celebrate Earth Day.

 

But you should keep in mind that it doesn't work for every type of roof. Certain roofing materials used in older or historical homes can be difficult for solar installers to work with. In addition, many homes and apartment buildings have skylights or other rooftop additions like roof decks that can make the solar installation process difficult or costly. In the long run, however, this shouldn't be a barrier. If your home does not qualify for a rooftop solar system, you still have options: ground mounted solar panels or buying a share in a community solar garden can get you around this drawback of solar energy. Well, not many drawbacks, yeah?

 

After reviewing our pros and cons of solar energy, there are some clear takeaways. Rooftop solar panels aren't the perfect fit for everyone, but that's okay. Like any other home efficiency product, solar panels provide clear benefits to property owners that are in need of energy upgrades and electricity bill reduction. Not everyone fits that description. Solar energy should be thought of as an investment: a low-risk investment with major returns, but a hefty investment nonetheless.

 

We are moving towards clean energy, and solar is our cheapest option. There is nothing unclear about our energy future if we want to get rid of fossil fuels and move to renewables. Solar is the most scalable, consumer-friendly solution. 

Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12-18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному вами варианту ответа.

 

Going solar

 

Is solar a smart long-term investment that can reduce your carbon footprint? Absolutely — and everybody from the Department of Energy to Leonardo DiCaprio can back it up. But even something as trendy as solar can have downsides. Let's break down the top perks and quirks of going solar.

 

The top benefit of solar panels is pretty clear. When you install solar power for your home, you generate your own electricity, become less reliant on your electric utility and reduce your monthly electric bill. A solar panel system typically has a 25-30-year lifespan, which means that you can out your electricity costs for decades to come by going solar. Also the cost of solar is dropping across the nation. The next point is that it improves the value of your home. The recent studies found that property values increase after solar is installed. Moreover, it can pay you money while you are earning back your investment. Due to a number of awesome solar incentives in the U.S., solar panels can actually turn you a profit in addition to generating bill savings that pay off the cost of the system.

 

Then, you have to consider the volatile nature of electricity prices and determine what utility rates will be in years to come. When you compare the coat of utility electricity with home solar, you should keep in mind that you can expect electricity rates to increase annually. Over the past years, national electricity costs have increased at a rate of 2.2 % per year. So this is an added incentive for solar: when you generate your own energy with a rooftop system, you're taking control of energy costs so that you are no longer a victim to variable utility rates. 

 

It reduces carbon emissions and helps move towards energy independence. As the world searches for the most cost-effective ways to reduce our carbon output in the face of global climate change, solar energy has become a trendy resource for a good reason and perhaps a small victory giving us the right to celebrate Earth Day.

 

But you should keep in mind that it doesn't work for every type of roof. Certain roofing materials used in older or historical homes can be difficult for solar installers to work with. In addition, many homes and apartment buildings have skylights or other rooftop additions like roof decks that can make the solar installation process difficult or costly. In the long run, however, this shouldn't be a barrier. If your home does not qualify for a rooftop solar system, you still have options: ground mounted solar panels or buying a share in a community solar garden can get you around this drawback of solar energy. Well, not many drawbacks, yeah?

 

After reviewing our pros and cons of solar energy, there are some clear takeaways. Rooftop solar panels aren't the perfect fit for everyone, but that's okay. Like any other home efficiency product, solar panels provide clear benefits to property owners that are in need of energy upgrades and electricity bill reduction. Not everyone fits that description. Solar energy should be thought of as an investment: a low-risk investment with major returns, but a hefty investment nonetheless.

 

We are moving towards clean energy, and solar is our cheapest option. There is nothing unclear about our energy future if we want to get rid of fossil fuels and move to renewables. Solar is the most scalable, consumer-friendly solution.