Req 7g — Solar Power Systems
Solar systems try to capture radiant energy from the Sun and turn more of it into useful electricity or heat. Engineers improve solar output by improving the panels themselves and by improving how the whole system is installed and operated.
Technology improvements
Higher-efficiency photovoltaic cells, better inverters, tracking systems that follow the Sun, better panel placement, cleaner surfaces, and battery storage all help increase usable energy. Some systems also use concentrated solar power, where mirrors focus sunlight to make heat.
Cost
Solar costs have fallen a great deal over time, but installation, storage, permitting, and maintenance still matter. In some places solar is very practical; in others, roof angle, shade, weather, or grid policies can change the economics.
Environmental impacts
Solar systems produce electricity without air pollution during operation, but manufacturing, land use, mining of materials, and end-of-life disposal or recycling are still part of the environmental story.
Safety concerns
Electrical hazards, rooftop work, battery safety, and weather exposure are common concerns. Large solar farms also involve site maintenance and grid-connection issues.
U.S. Department of Energy — Solar Energy Basics DOE overview of how solar works, where it can be used, and what affects performance. Link: U.S. Department of Energy — Solar Energy Basics — https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-energy-basicsYou have explored systems that harvest sunlight. Next, move to the ocean and see why capturing energy from tides, waves, or temperature differences is promising but difficult.