In the search to reach solutions for a net-zero emission rate worldwide, countries are looking to scale up and eventually rely on renewable energy to substitute polluting fossil fuels.
Solar is perhaps the most abundant, fastest, and cheapest energy source on Earth. Solar energy generates minimal greenhouse gas emissions. An increasing number of countries are investing in developing solar energy, but there are factors that could hinder its growth.
What are the main advantages and disadvantages of solar energy?
How Does It Work?
When sunlight strikes the Earth’s surface the light is captured and converted into electrical energy.
Innovative technologies allow us to turn the sun’s energy into electricity powering, heating, and cooling systems, in our homes and work spaces. A solar energy company harnesses this energy through solar photovoltaic (PV) panels that power cells that are in turn utilized to power our homes and workspaces.
Between 2010 and 2019, solar rose from 0.06% to 1.11% of the global energy mix. In 2020, it recorded a record growth of 22% as installations experienced a boom. Among the countries that have poured the most money into solar energy are China, the United States, Japan, Australia, and India.
Advantages of Solar Energy – Renewable Energy Source
As the name suggests, solar power is a renewable energy resource. Unlike fossil fuels, the production of which requires huge efforts, time, and expensive heavy machinery, renewables convert a natural resource directly into electricity. Renewable energy sources are cleaner, cheaper, and easier to produce than fossil fuels such as gas and coal.
Full Length Arched MirrorAbundance
Solar is the most abundant energy source on the planet. Just a tiny fraction of the sunlight can provide a huge amount of energy. Obviously, some regions in the world experience more sunlight than others and it is these regions that might benefit most from development and implementation of solar energy. In cooler regions a solar hot water system may be an excellent way to harness minimum sunlight.
More Efficient
Over the years that solar has been a viable energy source, scientists have made some excellent advances in the development of solar tech improving the efficiency of panels and battery storage along with the durability over time.
Should We Still Invest in Solar Energy?
No energy source is perfect. From wind power, to fossil fuels, to nuclear and fossil fuels, all of these resources have their advantages and disadvantages. However, as the clock is ticking in terms of the race to reach zero emissions, it is crucial that all countries begin to seriously evaluate which sources of energy, including solar, can be the most sustainable. While solar energy might not be the best solution for colder climates given the lack of sunlight they receive, this renewable resource, has undeniable potential in Australia and it still a better alternative to environmentally unfriendly fossil fuel that contribute to the world global warming phenomenon.
