Question

What are the advantages and limitations of solar energy?

Accepted Answer

Solar energy is obtained from sunlight. It is used to generate electricity. It is an inexhaustible resource, definitely has some advantages. But energy generation using solar energy also has some disadvantages. So, the advantages and limitations of solar energy are as follows:

Advantages of solar energy:

Solar energy is a renewable source of energy. It can be used in abundance and it does not cause any environmental pollution. Thus, we call solar energy as 'green energy'.

Solar panels are used for the generation of electricity using solar energy. These panels do not need a lot of maintenance and are user-friendly.

To set up a solar electricity power station, we do not need complicated machinery or infrastructure. Solar energy can be harnessed in remote places to generate electricity. The places which are inaccessible to electric power lines can use solar energy for electricity generation.

Limitations of solar energy:

Electricity generation based on solar energy depends on sunlight. So, in winters and rainy season, when the intensity of sunlight is less, the electricity production will also be less.

To set up a considerable size of the solar array, a lot of space is required. If the set up is not big enough, the amount of electricity generated will not be sufficient for a large number of consumers.

The solar panels are costly. So, the initial cost of setting up a solar power station will be sufficiently high.

Maharashtra Board Solutions for Chapter: Towards Green Energy, Exercise 7: Exercise

Maharashtra Board Science Solutions for Exercise - Maharashtra Board Solutions for Chapter: Towards Green Energy, Exercise 7: Exercise

Questions from Maharashtra Board Solutions for Chapter: Towards Green Energy, Exercise 7: Exercise with Hints & Solutions

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