Question

How does solar energy cause pollution?

Answer 1

Solar power is the conversion of solar energy into electricity, which can be done directly using photovoltaics (PV), indirectly using concentrated solar power, or a mixture of both. To focus a wide area of sunlight on a small beam, solar power use lenses or mirrors and solar tracking systems.

Complete answer:
Solar energy systems and power plants do not pollute the environment or emit greenhouse gases. When solar energy replaces or decreases the usage of other energy sources with greater environmental impacts, it can have a beneficial, indirect effect on the climate.

Photovoltaic cells are made of harmful products and chemicals which are used for converting light into electricity. The atmosphere could be harmed if potentially hazardous fluids leak. Environmental regulations in the United States govern the use and disposal of these products. Large solar power plants, like any other form of a power plant, can have an effect on the world around them.

The clearing of land for building and the location of the power plant will have a long-term impact on native plant and animal habitats. Water may be needed at some solar power plants to clean solar collectors and concentrators, as well as to cool turbine generators.

In certain arid areas, using large amounts of groundwater or surface water to clean collectors can have an effect on habitats that depend on these water supplies. Furthermore, the concentrated sunlight generated by a solar power tower can destroy birds and insects that fly into it.

Note: While solar panel recycling has not yet become a significant problem, it will do so in the coming decades as solar panels are replaced. Solar modules can currently be disposed of with other forms of e-waste.