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What Is The Disadvantages of Solar Energy?

Date Added : September 23, 2010 | Views : 293

Disadvantages of Solar Energy



Those in favor of the development of solar energy believe that there are much moreadvantages of solar energy as compared to its disadvantages. Whether this claim really holds ground is a question that can only be answered after undertaking a serious introspection of solar energy pros and cons. Given below are some drawbacks of solar energy which you are likely to come across when you try to harness it.



Economic Issues

The most prominent disadvantage of solar energy is the high cost incurred in creating a set up for the same. A decrease in the cost of solar panels for electricity may bring this source of energy back on track in terms of replacement for the fossil fuels, but as of now the high cost incurred is a major roadblock when it comes to practical use of solar power. Add to it the fact that you will have to invest in batteries, in which you will store electricity, and huge area, wherein you will set up the solar panels, and the cost incurred in the development of solar power goes even higher.



Reliability Issues

Yet another limitation of solar energy comes in form of its dependence on weather. A cloud cover can hamper the amount of sunlight received by these solar panels and affect their efficiency, thus reducing the amount of power generated by this means. Even pollution is known to affect the photo voltaic cells used in solar panels. The wear and tear that the solar panels will subjected to due to overexposure to sunlight can reduce their efficiency and shorten their life as well.



Location Issues

The location of solar panels is yet another important attribute of solar power generation. You can only opt for solar energy generation if you live in a region wherein there is abundance of sunlight. If you intend to generate solar energy for home, you will have to place these solar panels in such a manner that they get direct or filtered sunlight throughout the day. The presence of trees and tall buildings in the surroundings can affect power generation to a significant extent.



Environmental Issues

Scientific studies have brought to surface several solar energy facts which were not known until a few years ago. This may come as a surprise for many, but solar energy has issues related to environmental pollution as well. The solar panels made from silicon contain potentially toxic metallic elements, such as lead and cadmium, which can harm the environment as well as our health.



These were some of the most prominent disadvantages of solar energy which have to be taken into consideration, along with its advantages, in order to decide whether this source of energy has a promising future or not. While these disadvantages do exist, and they are quite serious as well, it would be wrong to dismiss the chances of this source of power making it big anytime in the future. The giant strides that we have taken in the field of science and technology over the last few decades comes up as a major hope for the development of solar energy. The research and development teams of various countries are putting in efforts to address these disadvantages. If we are to ensure a smooth sail for solar energy in the future, these issues have to be addressed at the earliest.





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