Coal is in short supply and nuclear energy is both expensive and potentially harmful to the environment. The solution could be in the use of renewable energy.

1
Solar Energy

• Coal is in short supply and nuclear energy is
  both expensive and potentially harmful to the
  environment. The solution could be in the use of
  renewable energy.

2
Advantages

• Running costs are low.
• No carbon dioxide emissions to add to the
  Greenhouse Effect
• No sulphur dioxide emissions to cause acid rain.

Solar powered station, California
3
More Advantages

• Solar panels can be quickly set up in remote
  areas
• Local communities can benefit from small scale
  use of solar power.
• Can be used to charge batteries to provide
  electricity when needed.

Solar cells used to charge batteries
4
Disadvantages

• The initial cost of solar cells can be very
  high.
• The output is dependent on weather conditions and
  the time of day.
• Many solar panels are needed to produce that of a
  power station

Solar reflector used for cooking
5
More disadvantages

• Large areas of land are required for large scale
  generation of electricity
• A warm reliable biome would be needed.
• Solar cells have relatively low efficiencies

6
Solar energy
Solar energy in use in a mobile home in Arizona.
The solar panels convert the solar energy into
electrical energy. The use of solar cells are
also supplemented by the use of wind turbines
7
Solar energy

• This slideshow was produced and compiled by John
  Hendstock, North Chadderton School. Images
  provided by Dr. Overy, and are available on the
  ASE Image Gallery at www.ase.org.uk