Which of the following is a drawback of solar energy?

Choosing the drawback that solar energy is intermittent highlights a critical aspect of this renewable energy source. Solar energy generation is dependent on sunlight, meaning it can be inconsistent due to factors like weather conditions, the time of day, and geographical location. For instance, during cloudy days or at night, solar panels are unable to produce energy, which necessitates a reliable storage system or supplementary power sources to ensure a continuous energy supply. This intermittency challenges energy reliability and requires careful planning and investment in energy infrastructure to mitigate, such as battery storage systems or hybrid solutions that integrate other renewable or non-renewable energy sources. Understanding this limitation is crucial for effectively utilizing solar energy in energy planning and policy.

The other options do not accurately represent significant drawbacks of solar energy. While high installation costs can be a consideration, the trend has been towards decreasing costs over time as technology advances. Solar panels themselves do not produce greenhouse gases during operation, although there are emissions associated with their manufacture. Lastly, solar energy is not limited to summer; it can be harnessed whenever there is sunlight, although the amount of energy produced will vary seasonally and daily.