Solar Energy: An Overview
Many countries seek clean energy alternatives to replace fossil fuels, as the increasing threat of climate change is real.
While solar is the most expensive of all clean energy options, prices have fallen. The future of solar energy looks bright after taking into account the pros and cons, as well as the expectation that price will continue to fall.
Solar energy has many advantages. It is an alternative to fossil fuels, produces little environmental impact and can be produced by any country. It produces energy only when the sun shines, requires a lot of land and certain solar technologies are made from rare materials.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The cost-competitive solar energy alternative to fossil fuels is growing.
- The sun is a renewable energy source with low environmental impacts and encourages energy independence.
- It is also limited by the time of the sun, which can cause a shortage of materials and hazardous materials similar to electronics.
- Technological advances that improve efficiency and storage capacity may make the negatives of solar energy less severe.
- It may be worth increasing incentives for solar energy development.
Solar Energy’s Advantages
Sustainability
Solar energy has the advantage of being a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Although fossil fuels may have an expiration date, the sun will likely be around for at most a few billion more years.
Low environmental impact
Solar energy has a significantly lower impact on the environment than fossil fuels. Its greenhouse gas emissions are negligible because it does not require fuel combustion. Concentrating solar thermal plants (CSPs) can be inefficient for water use, depending on which technology is used. However, the right technology can significantly increase efficiency. Photovoltaic (PV) solar cells don’t require water for electricity generation.
Although solar energy technology is now more affordable than fossil fuels in many markets, it is still quite expensive in others.
Energy Independence
The sun shines worldwide, making every country a potential energy producer. This allows for greater energy independence as well as security. Solar energy is not only a source of security and independence for the nation; it can also be used to provide power that doesn’t depend on having a larger electric grid.
Solar Energy’s Disadvantages
Intermittency
Solar energy technology has one of its biggest flaws. It generates energy only when the sun shines. This means that the sun is only active during daylight hours. This interruption could not cause a shortage if there were inexpensive ways to store energy. Even though it is possible to generate more solar power than you need, the sun can also produce excess capacity. Along with other leaders in global solar energy technology, Japan is working to develop adequate energy storage solutions to address this problem.
Use of Land
Solar energy can also take up large amounts of land, causing habitat loss or land degradation. Although solar PV systems can be attached to existing structures, larger utility-scale systems could require 3.5 to 10 acres for each megawatt. CSP facilities can require between 4 and 16.5 acres per megawatt. However, facilities can be placed in low-quality areas along existing transport and transmission corridors to reduce their impact.
Material scarcity
Some solar technologies require the use of rare materials for their production. This is more a problem with PV technology than CSP technology. It is not a lack of known reserves but rather the inability to produce future demand. Many rare materials are the byproducts of other mining processes and not the main focus of targeted mining efforts. Recycling PV material and advancements in nanotechnology that improve solar-cell efficiency could help boost supply. However, it is possible to find more abundant material substitutes.
An Environmental Downside
One environmental problem with solar technology is its use of many harmful materials as electronics. Disposing of hazardous waste will become more difficult as solar energy becomes more popular. If the problem of proper disposal can be overcome, solar energy will offer a more attractive alternative to fossil fuels because it reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Sustainable than fossil fuels
- The environment has a lower impact.
- Energy independence helps countries.
- Cost-effective
Supply interruptions
- Large land area
- Technology is not yet widely accessible
- Still can cause some damage to the environment
173,000
The number of terawatts (or solar energy) that shines on Earth every day is approximately 100.000 times the daily global energy consumption. 5
Solar Energy Examples
Rajasthan, India, is home to the largest solar power plant in the world. Some impressive statistics are displayed at the Bhadla Solar Park. It was completed in April 2020. The plant covers 10,000 acres and has a capacity of 2,245 megawatts. The project’s total cost is approximately $1.4 billion. 6
Solar Star Park near Rosamond, California, is the largest US solar park. Solar Star-1 and Solar Star-2 are two separate power stations with 314MW each. The location of the power station is similar to that in India. It consists of two separate installations, Solar Star-1 and Solar Star-2, with respective capacities of 314MW and 265MW.
Solar Energy vs. Wind Energy
Two of the fastest-growing sources of Renewable Energy are wind and solar power. While both energy sources can reduce pollution and provide alternatives to fossil fuels, some differences exist.
Wind turbines are more environmentally friendly than solar panels. They produce more electricity than the solar panel and can be placed offshore. Wind energy can be harnessed day or night, unlike solar. The wind is an unpredictable source of energy. Turbines can also be quite loud and require large amounts of land. They are therefore not suitable for densely populated areas.
Solar panels are ultimately the most reliable and powerful source of energy. Solar panels require less space and are quieter, so they can be placed on rooftops. They are often used in densely populated areas.
FAQs on the Pros and Cons Of Solar Energy
What are the pros and cons of using solar energy for your home?
Solar energy can be used to save money, increase home value, reduce carbon footprint, and help you become more energy-independent. The large solar panels can be a detriment to potential buyers. You may also not be allowed to install solar panels in certain HOA agreements.
Are Solar Panels a Good Investment?
Solar panels can increase the property tax because they increase its value. Many states provide exemptions for residents. For the most current and accurate information, visit your county clerk’s website.
Are Solar Panels able to reduce your electric bill?
Installing solar panels can reduce your monthly electric bill in almost all cases.
Are there tax benefits for solar panels?
Yes. Yes. The federal solar investment credit, enacted in 2006, offers a 26% tax credit on solar panels installed on residential or commercial properties.