Gerd Eisenbeiss

Gerd Eisenbeiss is the program director of the German Aerospace Research Agency. In the following viewpoint, Eisenbeiss argues that because of the environmental threats posed by the burning of fossil fuels, reliance on solar power is an “ecological necessity.” In addition, according to Eisenbeiss, the development of solar energy technology is made necessary by the inevitable depletion of Earth’s energy resources. Eisenbeiss describes several types of solar power systems in America, Germany, and Spain that are producing energy. He concludes that with new technological improvements, solar power can become an increasingly efficient energy source.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. How does Eisenbeiss compare solar energy and fossil fuels?
2. According to the author, where is approximately half of the world’s solar electricity produced?
3. What are the...