Recently, the popularity of solar energy is rapidly growing worldwide, but along with this, a campaign against its use is intensifying, built on myths and manipulations. Carbon Brief's publication analyzed the main arguments and provided scientifically substantiated refutations.
Solar Energy is Cheap and Reliable
Although many people consider solar energy to be expensive and unstable, the International Energy Agency states that it is now the most economical way to produce electricity. The prices of solar panels have decreased by 90% over the last 10 years, and thus their periodic fluctuations allow for accurate forecasting of energy production. Moreover, with the use of batteries, solar modules can deliver electricity around the clock.
Solar Panels Do Not Cause Environmental Harm and Do Not Occupy Valuable Land
Many people claim that solar panels emit more carbon than they save and occupy fertile lands. However, statistics show that panels compensate for their carbon footprint within 4 months and, thereafter, save 57 times more carbon than is expended in their production. In terms of area, solar farms in the USA occupy 4 times less space than golf courses, and there are cutting-edge technologies for installing panels on water bodies.
The Production of Solar Panels Does Not Threaten the Planet with Toxic Waste
Even with the expected 160 million tons of waste from solar panels by 2050, this is 300-800 times less than from fossil fuel power plants. Over 95% of panels do not contain toxic cadmium, and lead is safely packed, along with a waste recycling program in place.
High Temperatures Do Not Damage Solar Panels
While extreme heat may negatively affect the performance of solar panels, this effect is offset by the abundance of sunlight on hot days. Solar panels successfully operate even in the deserts of Saudi Arabia.
China is the Main Player in Solar Panel Production
Although China holds a key position in solar panel production, the difference is that panels are purchased once, unlike gas or oil, so there is no ongoing dependence on a supplier. The Glenrowan West facility with a capacity of 149 megawatts demonstrated a successful combination of energy production and agriculture. Moreover, the emergence of paper batteries from the Singapore startup Flint and a new engine running on liquid nitrogen from British engineers indicate the ongoing development of the industry.
There is a growing popularity of solar energy worldwide, but many myths and misconceptions about it are also spreading. Statistics and scientific research refute many arguments against solar technologies, demonstrating their efficiency, economy, and ecological sustainability. The demand for solar panels continues to rise, indicating a gradual transition to more sustainable energy production.