Why are we not harnessing solar energy from unpopulated areas?
Cost. Plus the further away the power generation is, the more is lost in transferring that power over long distances (and also the larger the cost to set up the power lines). Plus, solar panels can't run 100% of the time, so require a ton of batteries, and both the solar panels and the batteries …
The Short Answer
Cost. Plus the further away the power generation is, the more is lost in transferring that power over long distances (and also the larger the cost to set up the power lines). Plus, solar panels can't run 100% of the time, so require a ton of batteries, and both the solar panels and the batteries require a lot of maintenance. There are actually many areas of the world where investments in solar energy are being done, but it isn't really a solution everywhere. Many places are cloudy often enough to make solar power only a mediocre long-term solution over other sources of power, with a larger upfront cost.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Power, solar, cost
This explanation focuses on power, solar, cost and spans 107 words across 5 sentences. At 49% above the average Science explanation (72 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “Cost.” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 5 connected points.
How This Compares in Science
Ranked #108 of 500 Science questions by answer depth (top 22%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why we not harnessing solar energy from unpopulated areas?
Cost. Plus the further away the power generation is, the more is lost in transferring that power over long distances (and also the larger the cost to set up the power lines). Plus, solar panels can't run 100% of the time, so require a ton of…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Science questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 107 words, ranked #108 of 500 Science questions by depth. The key concepts covered are power, solar, cost.
What approach does this answer take to explain we not harnessing solar energy from unpopulated areas?
The explanation uses contrasting perspectives across 107 words. It is categorized under Science and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.