One big CHALLENGE with Solar Panels (PV) compared to Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) is:

Explanation:

Solar Panels (Photovoltaic - PV) vs. Concentrating Solar Power (CSP):

Definition: Solar Panels (PV) and Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) are two prominent technologies used to harness solar energy. PV panels directly convert sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials, while CSP systems use mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver to produce heat, which is then converted into electricity using a turbine or engine.

Correct Option Analysis:

The correct option is:

Option 2: They need costly batteries to store power for nighttime use.

This statement highlights one of the major challenges associated with Solar Panels (PV) compared to CSP systems. Solar Panels generate electricity during the daytime when sunlight is available, but they do not inherently have storage capabilities. To ensure a continuous power supply during nighttime or cloudy periods, it is necessary to pair PV systems with energy storage solutions, typically batteries.

While CSP systems often use thermal storage methods (e.g., molten salt) to store heat energy for later use, PV systems rely on batteries, which are expensive and can significantly increase the overall cost of the system. The integration of batteries into PV setups also presents challenges related to scalability, efficiency, and environmental concerns due to the mining and disposal of battery materials.

Detailed Explanation:

1. The Need for Energy Storage:

• Solar Panels (PV) produce electricity only when sunlight is available, meaning their output is intermittent and depends on the weather and time of day.
• To achieve a stable and reliable energy supply, PV systems often require batteries to store excess energy generated during the day for use during nighttime or cloudy periods.
• The cost of batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries, is a significant factor in the overall expense of a PV system. Additionally, battery lifespan and efficiency can impact the long-term viability of the system.

2. Cost Implications:

• Batteries are one of the most expensive components of a PV system. Their cost can rival or even exceed the cost of the solar panels themselves.
• The maintenance and replacement of batteries add to the operational costs, making PV systems less economically competitive compared to CSP in some cases.
• The environmental impact of battery production and disposal is another concern, as the extraction of materials like lithium and cobalt can cause ecological harm.

3. Comparison with CSP:

• CSP systems typically use thermal storage techniques, such as molten salt storage, which are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly compared to batteries.
• Thermal storage allows CSP systems to generate power even after sunset, providing a more consistent and reliable energy output.

4. Advances in Battery Technology:

• Research and development in battery technology, including solid-state batteries and flow batteries, aim to reduce costs and improve efficiency, which could make PV systems more competitive in the future.
• Despite these advancements, the current reliance on costly batteries remains a significant challenge for PV systems.

Conclusion:

Option 2 correctly identifies the major challenge of Solar Panels (PV) needing costly batteries for nighttime energy storage. This reliance on batteries increases the cost and complexity of PV systems compared to CSP systems, which often utilize more efficient and cost-effective thermal storage solutions.

Additional Information

Analysis of Other Options:

Option 1: They have lots of moving parts, making maintenance costly.

This statement is incorrect for Solar Panels (PV). PV systems have no moving parts, which is one of their advantages over CSP systems. CSP systems involve components like mirrors, tracking systems, and turbines, which require regular maintenance and have higher operational costs due to their mechanical complexity.

Option 3: They completely stop working on cloudy days.

This statement is misleading. While the efficiency of PV systems decreases on cloudy days due to reduced sunlight, they do not "completely stop working." Advanced PV panels can still generate some electricity under diffuse light conditions, although at a lower output. CSP systems, on the other hand, rely on direct sunlight for optimal performance and are more affected by cloudy weather.

Option 4: They need high-tech factories to be made.

This statement is partially correct but not unique to PV systems. Both PV and CSP technologies require specialized manufacturing facilities. PV panels involve semiconductor fabrication, which necessitates high-tech factories, but CSP systems also require precision engineering for mirrors, receivers, and tracking systems. Therefore, this challenge is not exclusive to PV systems.

Conclusion:

While all the options highlight challenges related to solar technologies, Option 2 accurately identifies the significant issue of costly batteries for energy storage in PV systems, making it the correct choice. Understanding these challenges is essential for selecting the appropriate solar technology based on specific needs and conditions.