Question

Although solar energy is considered "clean" energy, there are environmental impacts from its use. Which statement(s) identify the primary environmental drawback(s) of solar energy?

I. Solar energy cannot be used in isolated places.
II. Aquifers may be strained due to cleaning solar panels in water-scare regions.
III. Ecosystems are disrupted by installation of large-scale power plants.

I only

III only

I and III only

II and III only

Answer 1

The correct answer is III only.

Statement I is incorrect because solar energy can be used in isolated places, such as remote areas that are not connected to the power grid.

Statement II is incorrect because cleaning solar panels can be done using non-potable water sources or through dry cleaning methods that do not use water. Moreover, the amount of water used for cleaning solar panels is relatively small compared to the water consumption of other energy generation technologies.

Statement III is the primary environmental drawback of solar energy. The installation of large-scale solar power plants may lead to the fragmentation and loss of natural habitats, as well as the displacement of wildlife. However, it's worth noting that the environmental impact of solar power plants is generally much lower than that of conventional power plants that use fossil fuels.