IB ESS HL 7.2.3 Energy Source Sustainability Questions

Example - Solar:

Advantages of using solar energy:
a. Solar energy is a renewable resource that will never run out;
b. Solar energy produces no greenhouse gas emissions or air pollutants, reducing environmental impact;
c. Once installed, solar panels can provide free electricity for many years / leading to long

term cost savings;
d. Solar panels require minimal maintenance and have a long lifespan / making them a reliable energy source;
e. Using solar energy can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and foreign energy sources / increasing energy security.

Disadvantages of using solar energy:
f. Solar energy is dependent on sunlight, making it inconsistent and unreliable during cloudy or night time conditions;
g. The initial investment in solar panels and installation can be expensive / deterring some individuals or businesses from adopting solar energy;
h. Solar panels require a significant amount of space for installation / limiting their feasibility in densely populated areas;
i. Storing excess solar energy (for use during periods of low sunlight) can be costly and technologically challenging;
j. The production and disposal of solar panels can have environmental consequences / such as the use of toxic materials and waste generation.

Example - Wind:

Advantages of using wind as a source of energy:
a. Wind is a renewable energy source that will never run out, unlike fossil fuels;
b. Wind energy production does not produce greenhouse gas emissions/air pollutants, reducing the impact on the environment;
c. Once wind turbines are installed, the operational costs are relatively low compared to traditional energy sources;
d. Using wind energy reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels, increasing energy security;
e. The wind energy industry creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and other related sectors.

Disadvantages of using wind as a source of energy:
f. Wind energy production is dependent on wind availability, which can be inconsistent and unpredictable;
g. Wind farms require significant land area, which can lead to conflicts with other land uses such as agriculture or wildlife habitats;
h. Some people find wind turbines visually unappealing, leading to aesthetic concerns in certain locations;
i. Wind turbines can generate noise during operation, which may be a concern for nearby residents;
j. Wind turbines can pose risks to birds and bats through collisions or habitat disruption, requiring careful siting and mitigation measures.

Example - hydropower
Advantages of using hydropower as a source of energy:
a. Hydropower relies on the natural water cycle, making it a sustainable and renewable energy option;
b. Hydropower produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, contributing to lower carbon footprints;
c. Hydropower plants can provide a stable and consistent energy supply, as water flow can be controlled to meet demand;
d. Once the infrastructure is in place, hydropower can be a cost-effective energy source with low operational costs;
e. Hydropower projects can offer additional benefits such as flood control, irrigation, and recreational opportunities.
Disadvantages of using hydropower as a source of energy:
f. Large-scale hydropower projects can disrupt ecosystems, alter river flows, and impact aquatic habitats;
g. Building dams for hydropower projects may require the displacement of communities living in the affected areas;
h. Dam failures can have catastrophic consequences, leading to flooding, property damage, and loss of life;
i. Not all regions have suitable conditions for hydropower development, limiting its widespread adoption;
j. Sediment buildup in reservoirs can reduce storage capacity and affect downstream ecosystems, requiring ongoing management and maintenance efforts.

Note to examiners: Award credit in similar way for other valid renewable energy sources. Do not credit nuclear - it is non-renewable.
If more than one source is addressed, just credit the highest scoring.

Marking guidance:

Award 3 max for responses that do not name a specific renewable source
(2 marks max for disadvantages, 2 marks max for advantages)