The Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Power
Solar energy has very little impact on the environment. It produces no pollution and no waste by-product. It does not require mining and does not disrupt the land. But like all other forms of renewable energy, solar energy is underused. It accounts for less than one percent of energy consumption in the U.S. However, states like California and Florida are beginning to use it more. The big drawback to solar power is that the equipment needed to generate it is very expensive. Most analysts believe solar energy will not be used extensively until it becomes cheaper. As long as fossil fuels remain accessible, and relatively cheap, there is little public interest in developing the more expensive solar energy.
Global governments are beginning to offer tax breaks and other incentives to try to encourage business and individuals to use more solar energy because of the environmental benefits that it offers. One successful example of this is the Indian Solar Loan Program, which provides monetary support to builders of solar-powered homes in India. It has brought electricity to thousands of people there who otherwise do not have access to it, while also encouraging a movement away from using fossil fuels.
