<human>:  What are the benefits and drawbacks of using solar energy?
<bot>: Benefits: Solar energy is a renewable, inexhaustible, and widely available source of energy with no direct pollution, making it an attractive and sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources. Solar power can also save consumers money by reducing their dependence on costly utility bills. Furthermore, solar technology is becoming more efficient and effective every year, making it increasingly viable as an alternative energy source.Drawbacks: Although solar energy has many advantages, it also has some drawbacks. One major drawback is the initial cost of installing solar technology, as solar panels and installations may be costly for the average consumer. Additionally, solar energy is dependent on the weather, meaning that it can be unreliable during cloudy or rainy days. Finally, storing the energy from solar panels is also a challenge that needs to be addressed.