TED-Ed: Why aren't we only using solar power? - Alexandros George Charalambides

The video discusses the benefits and challenges of solar power, focusing on how cloud cover affects solar energy systems like solar towers and photovoltaics. It explains different types of solar irradiance and how they impact electricity production. The video also covers methods to manage fluctuations in solar power, the role of traditional power plants, and the importance of forecasting cloud movements to optimize solar energy use.

What is one of the main challenges of relying solely on solar power?

• Unpredictable cloud cover

• Limited availability of sunlight

• High cost of solar panels

• Complex installation process

Which type of solar energy system can utilize all types of irradiance?

• Solar panels

• Hydroelectric plants

• Wind turbines

• Solar towers

How can clouds sometimes increase the solar irradiance reaching a solar panel?

• By absorbing sunlight

• Through Mie scattering

• By blocking direct sunlight

• By reflecting sunlight back into space

Why can't traditional power plants be used solely as a backup for solar power?

• They require constant maintenance

• They produce too much pollution

• They cannot adjust output quickly enough

• They are too expensive to operate

What is a potential solution to minimize energy waste in solar power plants?

• Increasing the number of solar panels

• Building more solar towers

• Using more traditional power plants

• Forecasting cloud movements