The major disadvantage, with solar cells for power generation is

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Examoogle · Accepted Answer

Option D: High cost

Explanation & Concepts:
The primary disadvantage of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is the high initial capital expenditure (CAPEX) associated with semiconductor manufacturing, purification of silicon, and panel assembly costs. While operational costs are low, the high cost per watt compared to conventional thermal or hydro power generation remains the most significant barrier to mass adoption.

Working Principle: Solar cells operate on the Photovoltaic effect where photons hit a semiconductor p-n junction, freeing electrons to create an electric current. The cost is driven by the energy-intensive Czochralski process for silicon ingot growth and the complexity of doping and metallization in clean-room environments. Efficiency losses (Shockley-Queisser limit) further necessitate larger surface areas, increasing infrastructure costs.

Key Formulas: $LCOE = \frac{\sum_{t=1}^{n} \frac{I_t + M_t + F_t}{(1+r)^t}}{\sum_{t=1}^{n} \frac{E_t}{(1+r)^t}}$ — Levelized Cost of Energy representing the total cost of power production over the life cycle; $P = \eta \cdot A \cdot I$ — Output power where $\eta$ is efficiency, $A$ is area, and $I$ is solar irradiance

Key Points: High initial investment in silicon wafer processing.; Energy storage requirements (batteries) further increase overall system cost.; Non-linear cost degradation as scale increases.; Solar PV generation is dependent on local insolation levels.

Advantages: Minimal environmental footprint during operation; Low maintenance and zero fuel costs; Scalable from kW to GW levels

Disadvantages: High capital expenditure (CAPEX); Intermittent availability (daylight only); Energy density is low, requiring large land areas

Applications: Grid-connected utility-scale solar farms; Remote off-grid telecommunication power systems; Residential solar rooftop installations

Additional Info: The cost of solar modules has dropped significantly, but system balance-of-system (BOS) costs like inverters and mounting remain substantial.. Option B (Large area) is a physical constraint, but 'High Cost' is the economic disadvantage typically cited as the major hurdle for financial viability.

Answer: D is correct — The high capital investment required for module manufacturing and balance-of-system components is the primary economic disadvantage of solar power.

Exam Tip: In competitive exams, if 'High Cost' is presented alongside 'Variable Power' or 'Large Area', 'High Cost' is usually the intended answer due to its overarching economic impact on project feasibility.

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Option A: Lack of availability

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Option B: Large area requirement

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Option C: Variable power

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