Fig. 1 shows a proposed renewable-energy scheme near Ouarzazate, Morocco. Mirrors concentrate sunlight onto a receiver, heating a fluid that produces steam....
Question 1 Report
Fig. 1 shows a proposed renewable-energy scheme near Ouarzazate, Morocco. Mirrors concentrate sunlight onto a receiver, heating a fluid that produces steam. The steam turns a turbine connected to a generator. Electricity is carried by power lines to towns. Engineers claim that the scheme can help reduce global carbon emissions, although local people have raised questions about land and water use.
(a) State the energy source used in this scheme. [1]
(b) Describe the sequence of energy transfers from the receiver to electricity in Fig. 1. [2]
(c) Explain one global advantage and one local disadvantage of constructing this solar-power scheme. [2]
(d) Suggest one way planners could reduce conflict with local communities. [1]
Answer Details
(a) The energy source is solar energy, or sunlight. [1]
(b) The receiver heats a fluid, producing steam. The steam turns a turbine, which drives a generator to produce electricity. [2]
(c) Globally, solar electricity can replace electricity generated from fossil fuels, reducing carbon dioxide emissions and the contribution to climate change. Locally, the scheme may use land needed for grazing or farming, or require water for cleaning and cooling, affecting local livelihoods or water supplies. [2]
(d) Planners should consult local residents and respond to their concerns. Compensation, selecting lower-value land, or providing local jobs or electricity access are also valid ways to reduce conflict. [1]
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