Let s compare it to fossil fuels to explain why that is.
Solar power efficiency compared to fossil fuels.
Electricity from fossil fuels costs between 5 cents and 17.
In only one hour the amount of energy that shines on the earth equates to the amount used by the world s population in an entire year.
Mankind has developed a way to utilize the sun s vast energy by converting its sunlight into electricity via photovoltaics and other solar power methods.
Efficiency is explicitly a measurement of how much of a given resource s energy potential gets turned into electricity.
Fossil fuel use is integrated into the fabric of american society.
Why solar powered energy is rising above fossil fuels.
Study finds fossil fuel now pricier than solar or wind this article is more than 1 year old around 75 of coal production is more expensive than renewables with industry.
In terms of environmental impact solar power is a much more optimal resource than fossil fuels.
Advantages and disadvantages of fossil fuels against solar power.
The eia estimates that renewable energy has increased by 1 8 in 2015.
Solar energy is a clean energy.
Fossil fuels have the advantage of being a reliable resource with almost constant availability.
With fossil fuels the money you spend tends to never stop.
For many people solar is an affordable viable energy option.
Solar energy is a renewable form of energy.
Solar energy vs fossil fuels.
By the end of 2016 renewable resources including solar power are expected to increase by 5 5.
In comparison while making equipment for solar systems may involve fossil fuels once the solar system is in place and working there are no emissions.
Solar energy cost vs.
They just don t realize it yet.
For fossil fuels however there has been a slight decrease in 2015.
With solar panels this is around 20 but the 80 isn t an expensive waste.
The list of advantages and disadvantages of solar energy compared to fossil fuels will probably not surprise you.
The ultimate way to compare solar energy to fossil fuels is by cost where solar has quickly caught up with its non renewable counterparts.
Natural gas petroleum and coal together accounted for more than 80 percent of energy use in the united states in 2012.
In terms of reliable application coal and natural gas have the edge.
Even more importantly as long as the sun shines there is endless energy to harness.
Meanwhile more than 5 gigawatts of solar power capacity was scheduled to come online in 2013 about.
Meaning so long as the sun exists we will not run out of sunlight to power our homes cars.