June 7, 2011. Paul Hixon
credit: PilottageThe efficiency of solar panels has increased over the years due to technological advancements in the field. The cost of photovoltaic cells or solar panels has also reduced significantly over the years.
The need to reduce the amount of spent nuclear fuel and greenhouse emissions is the main driving force behind the increase in popularity of solar power for home use. While solar power has many advantages over other power sources, there are numerous safety concerns raised regarding its use.
Solar panels do not have external safety switches for emergencies such as fires. This issue has been raised by fire departments as firemen are unable to put out fires because of lack of an external switch to switch off the solar power distribution systems in homes. This concern be addressed by the local authorities if the local government made it mandatory for the photovoltaic cells to have external safety switches for emergencies.
Environmentalists and public health experts have also raised concerns regarding the reflective glare of the PV arrays or solar panels that can impair vision. When placed close to airports, the glare can pose a serious risk to air travel. To reduce the intensity of the glare, photovoltaic shingles should be used with normal shingles which reflect less light.
Disposal of photovoltaic cells is another major concern. If photovoltaic cells contain chemicals which can lead to pollution of ground water. proper disposal should be done on these wastes and whenever possible proper recycling should be done.
The advantages of solar energy outweigh the disadvantages by far. All the concerns raised by all the stakeholders can be overcome by putting in place the necessary measures and policies. With proper recycling facilities and proper regulation of solar power generation and use, solar power will have few demerits, if any at all.
Updated June 7, 2011. Published April 23, 2011. Paul Hixon
