Solar Energy: Advantages & Disadvantages

Feb 19
08:44

2009

Anna Williams

Anna Williams

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Learn what the advantages and disadvantages of solar power are, and some of the solutions that can be found for its disadvantages as well.

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One of the energy sources that modern technology has recently put to good use is solar energy. Solar energy isn't anything new,Solar Energy: Advantages & Disadvantages Articles but new advancements in technology have been placing solar energy more into the mainstream, and it may one day be one of the more primary power sources.

- Advantages of Solar Energy

Since solar energy comes directly from the sun, it is not only renewable, but also accessible in any part of the world. As long as the proper equipment is utilized, unlimited amounts of solar power can be collected and put to good use.

Solar power is also one of the cleanest forms of energy, since it creates no pollution, and produces no greenhouse gases or waste products.

For residential uses, solar power minimizes any negative impacts on the surrounding environment, making it a safer alternative to wind or hydro power.

Not only is solar energy non-pollutant, in terms of gases, but it also causes zero noise pollution - since there are no moving parts in any of the devices which are used to capture the sun's energy.

Because no moving parts are used, maintenance costs are low as well - only occasional cleaning and periodic battery replacements are needed. Most manufacturers of solar panels provide twenty-year warranties for their equipment, guaranteeing long-life operation.

Solar panels placed on rooftops also double as a heat absorbers, slightly cooling the top area of the house which is directly below the roof.

- Disadvantages of Solar Energy

The most obvious drawback of solar energy is its sole dependence on the sun. Once the weather becomes cloudy, or night strikes, energy collection comes to a halt. However, recent advancements of technology now allow the generated power to be stored in special batteries which provide roughly enough electricity to last a night. This is why solar-powered devices, including flashlights, are gaining in popularity and are proving to be efficient energy savers.

Solar panels can also be expensive, because of the materials that are used to create them. And even when these materials are taken out of the equation, the entire process, considering the other devices involved, can be a bit costly. This includes portable devices that utilize solar energy. But most of the cost involved is in the initial purchase and installation of a solar power system - not running costs.

Fortunately, there are some people who sell damaged solar cells, which are much cheaper. These damaged solar cells can be used to build fully functional solar panels, using the application of simple do-it-yourself techniques.

Although sunlight hits every part of the world, at some point in time, direct sunlight is needed in order to make the most of the sun's energy, and to generate the highest amounts of power. This significantly restricts the placement of solar panels. And some areas in the world may receive little benefit, due to lesser sunlight.

- What's the Bottom Line?

More research and development continues to be invested into this growing technology, and that's a good sign for the future of our households - as solar power may, one day in the future, be used even more frequently than other energy sources. Of course, solar energy isn't flawless as an energy solution, but it makes a great complimentary addition to other energy forms.