Summary Reader Response Draft #2

 In the article, “What are Solar Light Panels” from Economic Times, Team ProductLine (2019) discussed that solar light panels are utilised for residential and commercial lighting. Photovoltaic (PV) modules, encompassing high-quality crystalline silicon solar cells, are used to create solar light panels. With these PV cells, light energy from the sun can be transformed into electrical energy to be utilised or stored. In terms of features, solar light panels are extremely durable and will only degrade gradually. According to the article, the adequacy of these panels decreases by just 2% or less after one full year. Moreover, not only do solar panels reduce the dependability of conventional power sources and fossil fuels, but they also do not produce deleterious greenhouse gases. PV cells come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can range in length from a few millimetres to several inches. These cells are combined to create PV modules that can be up to a “few feet wide and several feet long” as stated in the article (paragraph 7, 2019). The article iterates multiple applications of solar light panels which can be utilized for everyday household items such as calculators, portable batteries and flashlights, making it a pragmatic and alternative source of power for the everyday user. Besides, they are of relatively low maintenance and their energy source is the most accessible, making solar power panels the ideal choice of clean energy.  

Solar panels come in different shapes and sizes with each catering to different needs. One of which is the portable solar power panel. These panels are available in a variety of shapes, ranging from foldable ones that are the size of a suitcase to flexible, rug-like ones that can be rolled up for storage and unrolled to be used in almost any outdoor setting (Bortin, 2023). They can be used to charge devices while camping and to power small appliances in RVs. This portability improves the sustainability of outdoor activities for end users as they can now avert to renewable and clean energy sources as compared to conventional energy sources. In addition, end users will be able to save money, weight load, and cargo space as portable solar power panels do not require external fuel, therefore lightening the workload of the end user. Thus, being portable and lightweight, these solar panels become pragmatic for end users to enjoy their activities more sustainably.  


Solar light panels often require relatively little upkeep, primarily due to the system's lack of mechanical parts. In fact, the inverter in solar panels, which is normally replaced after the system has been functioning for about 15 years, is the only component in need of maintenance. Thus with this cost-saving feature in hand, end users will have peace of mind as they are not required to conduct regular maintenance and purchase of new parts. 


In addition, solar light panels are one of the most accessible forms of renewable energy due to the infinite amount of sunlight found in most parts of the world. It is estimated that the monthly solar radiation in Malaysia alone is approximately around 400–600 MJ/m2 . If solar panels are used to generate electricity in Malaysia for everyday use, they are able to harness huge amounts of energy which is still untapped. Furthermore, it is discussed by Discover Solar Power (2022), solar panels are able to harness energy without the constant need of direct sunlight. Even on cloudy days or in shade, they are still able to produce electricity, though not as much as solar panels under direct sunlight, showing that solar panels are still of use without constant need of direct sunlight. According to World Atlas (2019), Torshavn, Faroe Islands, is ranked the city with the least amount of sunlight, with an approximate of 2.4 hours of sunlight per day and 840 hours per year, solar panels would still be of use, even in a city with minimal sunlight. 


However, in light of other forms of renewable clean energy, solar power panels are currently ranked as 2nd biggest output as compared to hydroelectric. On average, hydroelectric produces approximately * while solar produces approximately * of energy in the USA alone.  


In conclusion, despite the counterargument, solar light panels are still the ideal source of clean energy as they are pragmatic, accessible, and low maintenance. They offer a workable response to the energy dilemma, making it possible for everybody, wherever they may be, to have access to safe and dependable energy. Solar lighting systems are an important step in the world's transition to a greener and more sustainable future. Although solar panels' power output may not yet be compared to other clean energy sources, technological developments and the rising need for clean energy sources will continue to spur development in this sector.

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