Solar Energy Technologies and Challenges

Solar energy has become the cheapest way to generate electricity, yet it only accounts for 3% of global electricity. The price of solar panels has dropped significantly due to technological advancements and global collaboration. Despite its benefits, solar energy faces challenges like the duck curve, which affects energy demand. Solutions such as lithium-ion batteries and alternative storage methods are being developed to address these issues. The future of solar energy looks promising, with predictions of it supplying a significant portion of global electricity by 2050.

What percentage of the world's electricity is currently produced by solar energy?

• 1%

• 5%

• 10%

• 3%

Which country initially developed the technology for modern-day solar cells?

• Germany

• Japan

• China

• United States

What was the significant action taken by Germany in 2000 to boost solar energy?

• Became the largest producer of solar panels

• Developed lithium-ion batteries

• Passed a law for renewable energy development

• Invented the solar cell

What is the main issue with solar energy that prevents it from being used more widely?

• Complex installation process

• High cost of solar panels

• Limited availability of sunlight

• Lack of government support

What is the 'duck curve' in the context of solar energy?

• A graph showing solar panel efficiency

• A chart of daily energy demand fluctuations

• A method of storing solar energy

• A type of solar panel design

Which technology has become a viable option for storing solar energy?

• Hydrogen fuel cells

• Wind turbines

• Lithium-ion batteries

• Nuclear reactors

What is a flow battery's advantage over other types of batteries?

• Cheaper production cost

• Longer energy storage capacity

• Faster charging time

• Smaller size

What is one of the challenges of using pumped hydro storage?

• Limited to urban areas

• Needs two lakes and a hill

• Requires a lot of sunlight

• Expensive to maintain

By what year is solar energy expected to supply 23% of global electricity, according to forecasts?

• 2030

• 2040

• 2050

• 2060

What is the expected role of solar energy by 2030?

• Obsolete technology

• Minor contributor to global electricity

• Major part of the world's electricity supply

• Sole provider of electricity