Current Status and Future of Solar Energy

Fossil fuels provide the bulk of world energy needs, but recent concerns over environmental factors, geopolitical issues and economics have spurred interest in renewable energy. Though multiple options for renewable energy exist, solar energy is one of the most viable. However, economic considerations as well as infrastructure and technical concerns make solar energy a niche player currently. This presentation will compare and contrast solar energy with other renewable sources from technical and economic perspectives. The presentation will also review the current state of the art as well as some of the technical challenges related to broad acceptance and use of solar energy.