What is a limitation of solar energy?

What is a limitation of solar energy?

• A. It is dependent on sunlight and is not effective at night or during cloudy weather.
• B. It requires nuclear fuel.
• C. It cannot be deployed on rooftops.
• D. It causes extensive water pollution.

Answer: (A)

Intermittency due to dependence on sunlight is the key challenge of solar energy. Solar panels generate electricity only when exposed to sun, so output falls to near zero at night and drops during cloudy or rainy weather. This variability means solar alone can’t provide a steady, reliable supply unless paired with energy storage (like batteries) or other dispatchable power sources, and it’s why grid operators often plan for backup or diversified generation. Geographic and seasonal differences also affect how much sun is available, influencing reliability and capacity planning. The other statements don’t capture this main limitation. Solar doesn’t require nuclear fuel, it can be installed on rooftops, and while there are environmental considerations in manufacturing and lifecycle, it doesn’t inherently cause extensive water pollution during normal operation.

Intermittency due to dependence on sunlight is the key challenge of solar energy. Solar panels generate electricity only when exposed to sun, so output falls to near zero at night and drops during cloudy or rainy weather. This variability means solar alone can’t provide a steady, reliable supply unless paired with energy storage (like batteries) or other dispatchable power sources, and it’s why grid operators often plan for backup or diversified generation. Geographic and seasonal differences also affect how much sun is available, influencing reliability and capacity planning.

The other statements don’t capture this main limitation. Solar doesn’t require nuclear fuel, it can be installed on rooftops, and while there are environmental considerations in manufacturing and lifecycle, it doesn’t inherently cause extensive water pollution during normal operation.