M5D2: Large and Small Scale Electrical Production

Paper details:

Answer the questions in at least 250 words total.

#1. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of large and small scale electrical production.

#2. Recommend the direction in which the US should go in spending its limited capital for energy production investment. Present a reasoned argument and cite information in support, citing your sources.

Photovoltaic solar panels on homes and businesses are a common sight in sunny regions of the country. This is primarily due to large government rebates and tax incentives, which are designed to encourage homeowners and business owners to purchase them. However, solar panels are very costly and energy-intensive to make. Photovoltaic panels are not nearly as efficient as other forms of electrical production. Most large non-hydroelectric power plants make use of the Carnot cycle to produce electricity and are quite efficient in converting chemical or nuclear energy to electrical energy. However, there are downsides to large scale production as well.