The Controversy of Harnessing Solar Energy

We often hear about solar cars, solar heating, and solar batteries. But will solar energy ever be a major source of energy for society?

Solar energy is cheaper than other fossil fuels because we can get an abundant source from the sun. In sunny desert areas, 50% of the sun's radiation that reaches the ground could be used to produce electricity for businesses and industry and to provide heat, light, and hot water for homes. Experimental solar pond can also produce hot water to drive generators.

Unfortunately, we can't yet power our homes entirely on sunlight. Solar energy can only be used effectively in bright light. Its greates potencial therefore is in hot countries that have clear skies for most of the year. But Unfortunately most houses solar power solar cells are need to convert sunlight directly into electricity. Solar cells are very cheap to run, but relatively expensive to buy and many people can't afford them.

Needless to say, solar energy is a useful and non-pollution source of energy. Unfortunately, solar cells, the main device to harness the sun's energy are still very expensive.