The first photovoltaic cell was developed in 1954, a mere 68 years ago. Manufacture of cells and panels is now quite automated, but solar power is still the most expensive method of generating electricity, watt for watt.
They also, of course, don't work at night.
The power inverter is the cheapest part of the system. We stamp out semiconductors like cookies now. Even bricks like that are pretty cheap. They are just simple transistors and diodes.
The panels are expensive. That's a lot of silicon wafer to start with...just for a single panel. They are also susceptible to damage from a lot of hazards.
They also, of course, don't work at night.
The power inverter is the cheapest part of the system. We stamp out semiconductors like cookies now. Even bricks like that are pretty cheap. They are just simple transistors and diodes.
The panels are expensive. That's a lot of silicon wafer to start with...just for a single panel. They are also susceptible to damage from a lot of hazards.