Solar Energy
In short, technical and quick definition, Solar energy is radiant energy produced in the sun as a result of nuclear fusion reactions, sent to Earth from space, the energy quanta (photons), which interacts with the atmosphere and Earth’s surface, so the energy produced directly by the transfer of light energy radiated the Sun.
The most important effect of solar energy is that it can be created and sustaining life on Earth. Life on Earth would not be possible if the sun would disappear even for a fraction.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Energy
After the world discovered the danger of extinction of all fuel resources on Earth, which are disappearing very fast, were investigated and found alternative ways of obtaining energy. The environmentally friendly and natural form found in abundance is solar energy. “Hand-picked” properly, solar energy can cover almost 50% of energy needs. However, like any other process, using solar energy also has both pros and cons. The basic advantages and disadvantages of solar energy are as following.
Advantages of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers us the opportunity for our daily activities; the oxygen and food production would be impossible without solar energy. If the sun would disappear, life on earth would disappear too. Even if they were made all sorts of scenarios, some scientific, others fantastic, the sun is still in the sky.
The main advantages of Solar Energy are briefly listed below.
- Solar energy is a renewable resource in the true sense. It will not go away, unless the sun will cease to burn, in which case there would be no life on our planet. That mean that solar energy it’s an inexhaustible and endless (at least in our lifetime).
- Solar panels do not produce any pollution during operation, unlike nuclear reactors and heating. While the first cause of nuclear waste disposal problems, ultimately producing harmful smoke and ash. The fact, that nuclear plants are dangerous not only wastes radioactive, but instability uranium, does to highlight the effectiveness of using solar panels.
- Zero noise: Solar energy production by solar panels or other means that uses solar energy is free from noise, unlike other methods.
- All around Globe: Unlike oil and coal reserves, solar energy is available in all parts of the planet, not concentrated in a single party. Therefore, to “harvest” the solar energy can be made almost in any place.
- It Can be used on different places with 100% viability. Solar power generating units are compact and flexible in design, which means it can be installed in almost any space, without worrying that you have to build special locations.
- It can be used in isolated places.
Disadvantages of Solar Energy
Although at first glance appear to be adverse, solar energy, however shows some drawbacks. Although at first glance appear to be adverse, solar energy, however shows some drawbacks. Most of them are related to the absence of light that is present 24 hours. Some disadvantages of solar energy are listed below.
- Solar energy is not a concentrated energy like fossil and fuels. Therefore, its use in automobiles or other mechanical forms is difficult, considering the energy result.
- Expensive producing costs: Decision for such a system depends on the needs and possibilities of each individual, of where you are and especially the money that you have. It is a useful investment, but expensive and in any case is not one that works wonders.
- Large solar energy systems are costly and difficult in terms of finding the location.
- Although most location receives sunlight, not every location is feasible for solar panels.
- Solar cells work only during the day, and their efficiency is reduced during the days dreary and cloudy.
- Inefficiency because of pollution: Pollution can cause adverse effects on the efficiency of solar panels. Efficiency can be reduced; the solar cells are unsuitable for certain areas.
However, all in all, solar energy is one of the most efficient heating sources, protecting both Earth and its inhabitants though it has some cons.