Environmental Impacts of Solar Energy (College Board AP® Environmental Science): Study Guide

Advantages & disadvantages of solar energy

Advantages of solar energy

1. Renewable: solar energy is abundant and inexhaustible

2. Zero operational emissions: it produces no greenhouse gas emissions during operation

3. Low operating costs: once installed, solar energy systems have low maintenance and operating costs

4. Energy independence: solar energy reduces the reliance on fossil fuels and enhances energy security

Disadvantages of solar energy

1. Intermittent: solar energy is dependent on sunlight availability, which can be affected by weather and time of day

2. High initial costs: installation of solar energy systems can be expensive

3. Space requirements: large areas are needed for solar panels to generate significant amounts of energy

4. 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

5. Solar panel production: silicon and rare earth elements are used and have to be mined

6. Limited lifespan: solar panels last for just 20-30 years and need careful disposal to avoid chemical pollution

7. Desert environments: large solar energy farms can alter land cover, impact local microclimates, reduce native plant water, fragment habitats, and reduce biodiversity