WAEC Geography 2023 Theory — Question 14

Model answer

(a) Solar energy is radiant energy from the sun which comes as heat and light and can be harnessed as an atmospheric resource. (b) Advantages of solar energy: it is inexhaustible and renewable; it is abundant; it is entirely free; it provides energy independence; it provides heat energy in the environment; it provides light during the daytime. (c) Problems associated with harnessing solar energy: it is not available at night or on cloudy/overcast days; the equipment/technology needed to harness it (solar panels) is expensive to install; it requires a large surface area for significant energy collection; energy storage (in batteries) for later use can be difficult and costly; efficiency can be affected by dust, weather and location.