The use of solar energy has both pros and cons. More people may start using solar energy to do things such as heat their swimming pools, as it is cheaper than using gas or electrical heaters. The greatest possibility for the future is the idea of having solar powered cars. These cars would save thousands of dollars annually which is usually spent on gas. To power cars on solar energy, however, solar cells will have to become more efficient so that they can capture enough energy while retaining a practical shape and size for the car. This car would have some positives effects on the environment, as it would decrease air pollution and reduce gas emissions.
There are many hopes for the future of solar energy. Projects like Freiberg and that which was carried out in Tibet will become more popular when more people will realize that solar energy is a cost efficient source of energy. Although many people think that solar energy has a bright future, there are also those who are pessimistic about its implementation. Solar energy loans from the World Bank come with conditions which are difficult to meet. These loans require long term land leases. Solar energy is also very expensive and fuels such as kerosene are much more attractive because they are inexpensive and readily available. Although solar energy has the potential to replace fossil fuels, the use of photovoltaic systems has not become widespread. Another negative point is that if someone wanted to build a solar habitation project, they would not be able to obtain a loan from the World Bank as the project would be too small.
The equipment for solar energy is very expensive. However, the low cost of producing solar derived electricity in large quantities offsets these costs.
In conclusion there are many different outlooks and opinions on the future of solar energy. Many countries cannot afford to build these projects, and even those who can afford them take little interest in them. The European Union would like to make twelve percent of their energy come from renewable sources by 2010. Other countries should also follow this example. For this to occur, developed countries should encourage projects like this in their own countries and provide funding for third World countries to implement renewable energy sources such as solar energy. It is difficult to predict but renewable energy sources should eventually become more widely used since they are infinite.