This op-ed first published in 
Independence and freedom are bedrock principles of the United States. But for too long, we’ve relied on fossil fuels like oil, gas, and coal under the belief that they provide the independence we, as Americans, value. However, we’ve learned that this dependence leaves us vulnerable to global turmoil and centralizes power in the hands of a few large corporations. If we truly want to put America first, keep more money in the pockets of hard-working Americans and ensure that our energy future is secure and local, solar power is the solution.
When it comes to energy, relying on fossil fuels leaves us vulnerable. The war in Ukraine is a perfect example. As Russia’s aggression disrupted global energy supplies, Americans felt the impact at the gas pump and on their utility bills. In Michigan, we saw gas jump up 23 cents after the week of the invasion. The same happens when OPEC nations decide to cut production or when conflicts erupt in the Middle East.
Solar energy is produced right here, in our communities, from a source that no foreign nation can control: the sun.
A centralized grid based on fossil fuels also leaves Americans more vulnerable. Having one gas plant to service millions of customers leaves customers vulnerable if that plant is infiltrated by hackers, has to shut down from severe weather, or from a terrorist attack. Compare that to a decentralized grid that is formed from dozens of solar farms spread out across Michigan. With multiple small-scale energy sources, the risk is spread across a wider network, reducing the likelihood of a single point of failure or attack.
Of course fossil fuels are drilled here in America, but their prices are set by global markets, meaning we have no control over their market price. This lack of control undermines the very idea of energy independence. Further adding to that lack of control is that prices are subject to the whims of world leaders and their policies. In 2023, we received 60% of our crude oil from Canada; if the 25% tariffs are levied against Canada, those oil prices will go up, impacting all Americans.
By contrast, solar energy is produced right here, in our communities, from a source that no foreign nation can control: the sun. Though prices for the materials for panels can be subject to the whims of global markets, once solar panels are installed, they generate reliable, cheap power free from international interference, ensuring local energy stability.
Another issue with fossil fuels is who controls them. Coal plants, oil refineries, and gas facilities are overwhelmingly owned by large corporations that hold all the decision-making power. These companies decide how energy is distributed, who profits, and who bears the costs—often leaving Americans on the losing end.
The negative effects of fossil fuels—pollution, health risks, and degraded property values—are often concentrated in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. Think about Southwest Detroit, which is predominately a community of people of color and has been deemed a “sacrifice zone” for pollution, making some claim 48217 is Michigan’s most polluted ZIP code. Meanwhile, the profits flow to far-off executives and shareholders, with the local communities forced to live with and pay, in both health and dollars, for the pollution from fossil fuel plants.
Solar energy flips this script. A solar panel on your roof gives you the ability to produce your own power. Community solar projects allow neighbors to pool resources and share the benefits. Utility scale solar projects are located close to the communities they serve, ensuring the tax benefits and jobs do the same.
In addition to more local control, utility scale solar is the cheapest form of energy we have, saving everyday Americans real dollars on their utility bills. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), solar comes in at $60 per MWh while gas is $20 more expensive at $80 per MWh. Instead of sending your hard-earned money to utility monopolies or foreign oil producers, you can keep it circulating in your local economy and in your pocket.
If we’re serious about energy independence and putting America first, solar power is a no-brainer. It reduces our reliance on foreign markets, gives us control over our energy, keeps prices low and keeps the benefits in our own communities. Let’s take control of our energy, secure our energy independence, and ensure our communities thrive—by putting solar first. 
Nicholas Jansen is Groundwork’s Rural Clean Energy Organizer.
nicholas.jansen@groundworkcenter.org
