Disadvantages of using Solar Energy

1.Weather Dependent: As solar energy depends on nature, that is the sun, so as to produce energy, it is usually unreliable source during the rainy and cloudy seasons (Ewing & Pratt 2005, p.170). Its efficiency thus, drops during these climate changes, and it is also significant to note that, the energy cannot be harnessed during the night.

2. Cost: Initial costs of acquiring the solar panels are relatively high. There are costs that are incurred when purchasing inverters, batteries and the wiring processes. Due to the day-to-day innovations are technologies advancements, the costs of the solar panels are expected to be higher.

3.Expensive Energy Storage: For the energy to be efficiently used at expected lower costs, the solar energy requires proper storage in large batteries. The batteries, which are used in the off-the-grid system, are charged during daytime in order to be used in the nighttime (Ewing & Pratt 2005, p.170).

4.Space:  A lot of space is required when electricity demand is high and there are many solar panels needed. This can be a challenge when the roof tops of the building required to utilize the energy have limited space, and in this case alternative areas are required for maximum space.

5.Pollution Associated Challenges: Although solar energy systems produce much less pollution compared to other energy sources, it has been stated that the installation and transportation of the systems emit greenhouse gases. Likewise, in the manufacturing processes of the materials such as photovoltaic, there are hazardous and toxic materials that indirectly affect the environment.