Solar Energy

Solar maybe not as efficient as other power source right now but where there is no power at all it becomes a very viable alternative. Solar power is also not site dependant since the sun shines in a large coverage and footprint and that is a very important advantage. Useful every appliances such as entertainment devices radios and televisions and personal communications lick cell fones and other units as well as medical appliances are also now becoming smaller and more efficient and these units do not require much power inputs and are therefore very ideal for obtaining power for solar based system. So to answer your question, solar is indeed a very viable alternative. The current strong interest in green technology as well as global warming adds to the viability of solar as a future power source.

I agree that the efficiency of solar cells is still something to reckon with. Highest efficients recorded are at 42%, but this technology is not yet for mass manufacturing. Semiconductor fabrication, no matter what you do, consists of toxic materials and the only way around this is to have a system set up which ensures proper storage and disposal of these toxic materials. I think that the best alternative energy source depends on location. Tropical countries and deserts may well use solar energy or wind energy...and stuff like that.