Activity 3.2.3 – Alternative Energy - Solar Energy

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A. What is alternative energy?

Alternative energy consists of renewable energies. Alternative energy can be derived from water, solar and biomass. It does not come from fossil fuels and it is not the main energy source for industrialized countries. (2018, Bennett D)

B. Arguments for alternative energy 

According to ProCon.org, Alternate energy can have higher upfront costs and also require back up energies since the sun and wind are intermittent sources of energy. There is also geographic limitations and environmental factors that can prevent the build and use of alternative energy. (2020, ProCon)

C.  Solar Energy is one of the most important renewable energy sources. The suns energy is clean and inexhaustible. That means day after day, year after year, the suns energy quantity will remain the same. We will always have access to this renewable resource. The sun and its light can be used anywhere on the planet, even the places with no infrastructure or connections such as rural areas/places that are difficult to get to.  There are many advantages to Solar energy, one of them being that the entire earth and all of human's activities is fueled by solar energy. Much renewable technology (photovoltaic) arises from Solar energy. Almost all sources of energy, renewable and non-renewable are stored forms of solar energy. We use the sun to fuel our electricity by using solar panels. We use the sun to grow our food and keep us warm. Solar energy powers our wind and weather as well.  Solar energy can be converted to heat or electricity with minimal impact on the environment. (Bennett, D. 2018) There are many green jobs that create employment opportunities for many, such as builders and developers. Another advantage to solar energy is the minimal maintenance that is required, especially if someone were to chose photovoltaic panels to fuel their electricity.  Some of the disadvantages to solar energy is harnessing it.  Our sun is only out for half of the day until it sets, and the moon arises. Therefore, solar energy can only be gathered while the sun is shining. Solar energy is distributed unevenly and there is little to none generated at night or on cloudy days. Another disadvantage is that the manufacturing of PV cells generates hazardous waste from chemicals and solvents in processing. This poses a threat to humans and our lives. Solar energy can also damage fragile eco systems by the presence of large solar panels. 

Works Cited:

ProCon.Org, 2020. https://alternativeenergy.procon.org/top-10-pro-con-arguments/

Mutiti, S., Mutiti, C., Manoylov, K., VandeVoort, A., & Bennett, D. (2018). Introduction to environmental science (3rd ed.). Biological Science Open Textbooks. University System of Georgia.

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