Solar energy can be captured and used in a variety of ways, the most common of which is to generate electrical or thermal energy for homes, businesses, utilities, and other purposes. Solar energy is a renewable resource, and as such, it is an essential component of our clean energy future.
Even though understandably, we are in an age where technology has grasped the entire world, still, there are powerful resources that are highly in demand compared to the world of technology.
Here are 7 disadvantages of solar energy in this context which will help in taking the right decision. If you can employ some of the ideas, you can avail the benefits of solar energy.
While manufacturers, governments, and green energy activists tout the many advantages of solar energy as a clean, renewable source of energy, the question remains, “What are some disadvantages of solar energy?”
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What Are The Disadvantages Of Solar Energy?
Although there is a lot of good stuff said about solar energy every day, people should be aware of the disadvantages of solar energy before committing any financial resources. Here is an outline of the basic disadvantages of solar energy. Rebates and tax credits together can help reduce the cost.
1) Inefficient Energy Conversion
Installing solar panels on your roof will definitely save money in the long-run process. Solar panels have an average efficiency of 15-19%, with the most efficient solar panels that can reach 22-23%.
- A 250 W panel with 15% efficiency makes it less efficient
- It is not 100% reliable
- Solar panels are expensive
2) Solar Energy Is Expensive
The cost of solar energy panels is too expensive. But, solar prices have considerably dropped massively in recent years. The initial cost of solar panel installation is too expensive. Installment costs cover the equipment used in solar energy.
Also Read About: Which Resource Is Both Renewable And Inexpensive
Equipment tools required here are-
- Solar panels inverters, charge controllers, wiring, permits, repairs, labor, and maintenance
- Compensate for the initial costs
3) Space Limitations
Most homes have more than enough space to install solar panels to meet all of their electrical needs. Solar power systems can be retrofitted into RVs and cabins.
- Office buildings & high rises
- Large Apartment complexes
4) No Energy Production At Night
Solar energy is never produced at night. Whatever the solar panels can store during the day is enough for a day. They have to use it for the night and if there is cloudy weather the following day, you will have to adjust with the pre-charged panels.
- Additional costs for uses on top of the solar panels
- Solar power time uses at nighttime
- Invest in solar batteries and charge controllers
5) Negative Energy Balance
Solar energy technologies are still being developed, and scientists predict that by 2023, they will be capable of serving most of the world’s population. Since the sun is unreliable, solar energy cannot be relied on to power a country’s economy.
Until then, we will continue to rely on fossil fuels as our primary energy source.
- Solar energy is made of polluting materials
- Solar energy is hard to produce
- It needs bigger space for solar energy installation
6) Sunlight Unpredictability
The amount of sunlight produced varies from dawn to dusk, day to day, season to season, and geographical location. The disadvantage of solar energy is far greater for residents of northern latitudes with long, dark winter seasons than for residents of sunnier latitudes closer to the equator.
- Early morning & late afternoon hours provide less solar energy
- Fails to get charged during foggy climate
- Insufficient sized battery
If you live in shady regions, battery charging might take time to become fully charged. It is worth the installation. Suppose you are a farmer, using a solar electric fence charger to herd the cattle or flock could be a big issue.
7) Solar Panels Doesn’t Work In Cool, Cloudy, Or Foggy Climates
In foggy regions or in cloudy weather, the solar panels do not work. Thus, it stops nighttime activities if you are solely dependent upon solar energy.
- Winter months have shorter days & less sun
- Shady, cloudy, or foggy regions have fewer sun rays
- Ultimately, you will either need to use energy stored in a purchased battery and switch from solar to the grid at night
Solar power helps us build an environmentally friendly future. If it is not maintained properly, it will start giving negative results.
What do you think gives solar power? Drop a line for us in the comment section!
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FAQS-
Q1. What are the advantages of solar energy?
Ans1. Solar power is pollution-free. It causes no greenhouse gases on emissions. It reduces dependence on oil and fossil fuels.
Q2. What are the disadvantages of renewable energy?
Ans2. Renewable energy is unreliable. It relies on certain weather conditions. It is hard to produce non-renewable resources. It cannot meet the demands of the energy at the right point.
Q3. What are the disadvantages of biomass?
Ans3. Biomass is always available as a renewable source of energy. The organic materials used to produce biomass are infinite. It produces wastes such as garbage, wood, and manure.
Q4. What are the disadvantages of geothermal?
Ans4. Geothermal energy is generally considered environmentally friendly. The Cons of the energy are- Location restricted, environmental side effects, earthquakes, high costs, and the need for resources for maintenance.
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