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Solar (PV Cells)

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Solar photovoltaic (PV) cells generate electricity from sunlight using a process called the photovoltaic effect. When sunlight hits the solar cells, it creates an electric field within the cell, causing electrons to flow and generate a direct current of electricity. This electricity can then be used to power homes, businesses, and more.

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Yes! Solar energy is considered renewable because it comes from the sun which continuously radiates immense amounts of energy that can be harnessed through solar technologies like photovoltaic panels or solar thermal systems. As long as the sun exists, we can continue to harness solar energy, making it a virtually unlimited and renewable source.

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Solar energy is not widely used throughout the world. Australia, Namibia, Chile, and Niger are all countries that are currently using the most solar energy.

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How much of the world's electricity comes from this source?

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How much of the world's electricity comes from this source?

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In 2023, solar PV alone accounted for three-quarters of renewable capacity additions worldwide. By 2028, solar PV and wind additions are expected to more than double compared with 2022. Solar PV generation increased by a record 270 TWh (up 26%) in 2022, reaching almost 1300 TWh. This demonstrates the largest absolute generation growth of all renewable technologies in 2022, surpassing wind for the first time in history.

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How much does this energy source cost per KWH?

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How much does this energy source cost per KWH?

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The cost of solar PV electricity generation can vary widely depending on factors such as location, system size, local incentives, installation costs, and financing options. As of January 2022, the LCOE of unity-scale solar PV systems in sunny regions can range from around $20-$50 per megawatt-hour, which translates to $0.02-$0.05 per KWH. However, the cost of solar PV has been decreasing steadily over the years due to technological advancements, economy, and increased competition in the solar industry. As solar technology continues to improve and costs decline, solar PV is becoming an increasingly cost-effective and accessible source of electricity generation worldwide.

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How does this source impact the environment in a good way?

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How does this source impact the environment in a good way?

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Solar energy can also improve air quality, reduce water use from energy production, and provide ecosystem services for host communities through carbon sequestration, pollination, and ground/stormwater management. Research areas of focus include wildlife-solar interactions, stormwater runoff and water quality, soil health, and more. Researchers have focused on developing technologies and methodologies to better monitor and understand the interactions between wildlife, ecosystems, and large-scale solar facilities. They have also begun conducting field research to develop and validate a model to predict stormwater infiltration and runoff for a range of site conditions and to identify the best practices for stormwater management at ground-mounted solar sites. Researchers also have been working on monitoring soil conditions and grassland ecosystem health.

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How does this source impact the environment in a bad way?

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How does this source impact the environment in a bad way?

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The clearing and use of large areas of land for solar power facilities can affect native vegetation and wildlife in many ways including loss of habitat, interference with rainfall and drainage, or direct contact causing injury or death. Some PV cell technologies use heavy metals and use potentially hazardous fluids to transfer heat. Leaks of either of those materials could be harmful to the environment.

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What are the advantages of this energy source?

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What are the advantages of this energy source?

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One main advantage of solar energy is that they are considered clean energy. Unlike traditional energy sources, when PV solar panels create electricity, they don't emit harmful greenhouse gases, pollute groundwater, or deplete any natural resources. Another advantage of solar PV is that it lowers energy bills and requires little maintenance.

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What are the disadvantages of this energy source?

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What are the disadvantages of this energy source?

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Some disadvantages of solar PV are the original high cost of solar panels, need for constant sunlight, space constraints, and the environmental impact of the manufacturing. On average, solar panels cost around $18,000 for a complete set up. Solar panels, after installed, are completely dependent on the sun's rays to produce energy, meaning if they are located in a region that isn't sunny, they will not work.

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Imagine that the world would  like to shift predominantly to solar PV cells. 

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Imagine that the world would  like to shift predominantly to solar PV cells. 

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What would be easy about switching to this source?

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What would be easy about switching to this source?

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Switching to solar PV cells could be easy because they are an abundant renewable resource. Sunlight is free and readily available in many parts of the world, making solar energy a dependable and accessible resource. Solar PV cells also have a modular system design, meaning you can start small and expand later if needed, which means you can gradually increase your capacity over time based on energy needs and budget. Solar PV cells have no moving parts, which makes maintenance minimal compared to other energy systems. They also have a decreasing cost over time. This makes the initial investment more affordable and can lead to quicker payback periods through energy savings!

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What would be challenging about the shift?

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What would be challenging about the shift?

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One of the primary challenges of switching to solar PV cells in the initial cost of purchasing and installation. While prices have decreased in recent years, the upfront investment can still be significant. Another challenge is that not all locations are ideal for solar energy generation. Factors such as shading from trees or buildings can affect the available sunlight. Many locations do not have constant sunlight throughout the day or throughout the year. Cloudy days and seasonal variations can affect energy generation, which would require additional planning or backup systems.

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Those concerned about environmental issues often support solar PV cells because they generate electricity without producing greenhouse gas emissions or other pollutants associated with fossil fuel combustion. Many governments around the world also support solar PV cells through subsidies, incentives, and policies aimed at promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. There are also many homeowners and businesses that install solar PV systems to save money on electricity bills and to have more control over their energy production.

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The fossil fuel industry would not be supportive of the switch to solar PV cell systems because renewable energy sources like solar can compete with their market share and disrupt their business model. In some cases, political groups may not be supportive of using widespread adoption of solar PV due to reasons like skepticism about climate change, and concerns over government intervention in energy markets.