Challenges of Solar Renewables
Intermittency:
Solar energy is dependent on sunlight, making it inconsistent during cloudy days or at night.
Energy Storage:
Effective battery storage systems are needed to store excess energy for use during non-sunny periods.
Land Use:
Large-scale solar farms require significant land, which can impact ecosystems.
Initial Costs:
While costs have decreased, the upfront investment for solar systems can still be high.
Resource Use:
Manufacturing solar panels requires raw materials like silicon, silver, and rare earth elements, which can have environmental impacts.