Environmental Impacts of Solar Energy (College Board AP® Environmental Science): Study Guide
Advantages & disadvantages of solar energy
Advantages of solar energy
Renewable: solar energy is abundant and inexhaustible
Environmentally friendly: it produces no greenhouse gas emissions during operation
Low operating costs: once installed, solar energy systems have low maintenance and operating costs
Energy independence: solar energy reduces the reliance on fossil fuels and enhances energy security
Disadvantages of solar energy:
Intermittent: solar energy is dependent on sunlight availability, which can be affected by weather and time of day
High initial costs: installation of solar energy systems can be expensive
Space requirements: large areas are needed for solar panels to generate significant amounts of energy
Energy storage: storing solar energy for use during non-sunny periods is challenging and costly. Battery systems need to be disposed of safely at end of life
Solar panel production: silicon and rare earth elements are used and have to be mined
Limited lifespan: solar panels last for just 20-30 years and need careful disposal to avoid chemical pollution
Desert environments: large solar energy farms can alter land cover, impact local microclimates, reduce native plant water, fragment habitats, and reduce biodiversity
Worked Example
Which of the following statements is true about passive solar energy systems?
A. They use mechanical and electric equipment to collect and store energy.
B. They transform light energy from the sun directly into electrical energy.
C. They require solar collectors and storage tanks.
D. They absorb heat directly from the sun without the use of mechanical or electric equipment.
Answer: D. They absorb heat directly from the sun without the use of mechanical or electric equipment.
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