Activity 3.2.3 – Alternative Energy – Solar Energy

Alternative Energy: A Key to Sustainable Development

Alternative energy refers to energy sources that are renewable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. These sources of energy include solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass energy. Unlike fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, alternative energy sources do not release harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which contribute to climate change. (Mutiti, S, 2018) The use of alternative energy is essential for sustainable development, as it provides a clean, reliable, and affordable source of power that can meet the growing demand for energy while reducing the impact on the environment.

Arguments for Alternative Energy

The primary arguments for alternative energy are based on the need to mitigate climate change, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable development. Alternative energy sources are clean and renewable, which means they do not emit greenhouse gases, air pollutants, or toxic waste into the environment. (Mutiti, S, 2018) As a result, they have a lower carbon footprint and can significantly reduce the impact of climate change. Moreover, alternative energy sources are cost-effective in the long run. Although the initial investment in alternative energy technologies may be higher than traditional fossil fuels, the operating and maintenance costs are relatively lower. Alternative energy sources also have the potential to create new jobs and stimulate economic growth. Another advantage of alternative energy is energy independence. Alternative energy sources are often available locally, which means that they can reduce dependence on foreign oil and other fossil fuels. This can improve national security and reduce the risk of supply disruptions caused by geopolitical conflicts or natural disasters.

Assessing Solar Energy

Solar energy is one of the most abundant and readily available forms of alternative energy. It is the energy produced by the sun and converted into usable energy through solar panels. The advantages of solar energy include:

Advantages:

1. Solar energy is clean and renewable, which means it does not emit harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases into the environment.

2. Solar energy is readily available in most parts of the world, making it a reliable and sustainable source of energy.

3. Solar panels require very little maintenance, and they have a long lifespan of up to 25-30 years.

4. Solar energy can be used to power homes, businesses, and even large-scale power plants, making it a versatile source of energy.

5. Solar energy can reduce electricity bills and save homeowners and businesses money in the long run.

   
   

However, solar energy also has its limitations and disadvantages:

Disadvantages:

1. Solar panels can be expensive to install, which makes the initial investment high for homeowners and businesses.

2. Solar panels require a large amount of space to produce enough energy to meet the demands of most households.

3. Solar panels are dependent on sunlight, which means that they produce less energy on cloudy days or during the winter months.

4. The production of solar panels requires the use of rare earth minerals and other resources, which can have a negative impact on the environment.

5. The storage of excess energy generated by solar panels is still an issue, as battery technology has not advanced enough to store large amounts of energy.

   
   

Conclusion:

Solar energy is a promising alternative energy source that can help reduce the impact of climate change and provide a sustainable source of energy. While solar energy has its limitations and disadvantages, it is still a viable option for homeowners, businesses, and large-scale power plants. The continued investment in solar energy technology and research can improve its efficiency and address some of its limitations, making it a more cost-effective and reliable source of energy in the future.

References 

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. Chapter 4 – MUTITI_et_al_4_alternative_energy.docx