Why solar and not other sources?

Good question! The answer may be surprising. In some locations, solar will not be the best, although it will work well in many locations. For example, it probably would not be wise to install solar modules above the arctic circle because, although you would generate energy during the summer, it is very dark during the winter and you wouldn't get much energy. It is important that solar energy be able to compete with other energy sources. Although it often takes some time and money to bring a competing technology to catch up to existing technologies, business dictates that there be some reason for the change. The new technology must be able to stand on its own two feet once subsidies go away. In some places solar energy will be the best option and in other locations it will not. Solar will likely play a significant role in upcoming years in the power grid (in both developed and developing countries), but it will likely not play a role in all places.

In terms of impact, solar energy is capable of making a big difference in the individual lives of people with little access to other energy sources. In addition to contributions to the larger grid used by those who have many resources, these smaller contributions are also valuable. It is important to consider these small-scale but large-impact contributions when going about research. Without light, it is hard for small isolated farmers not connected to the electrical grid to connect with larger communities, learn, read, and thrive. It is much more difficult to sell goods without the internet. Access to the internet, which we often take for granted, broadens horizons.