Solar has its advantages, but it has some disadvantages. One of which are polutants. A few of the more notorious substances contained in panels and associated equipment include:Toxic batteries are required by solar arrays
- cadmium. When sealed inside solar panels, cadmium is harmless. If leaked from the panel, cadmium can inflict serious environmental damage. Panels must be disposed of with extreme care in order to keep this carcinogenic substance from leeching into soil and water.
- lead. Batteries, specifically deep-cycle, lead-acid batteries, are required by solar arrays to ensure a constant supply of electricity. They contain lead and sulfuric acid, which are both highly toxic, especially to marine creatures. Lead has been found to cause a number of impairments in children, including developmental disabilities. However, most of the material in dead batteries is recoverable if the batteries are recycled, as long as consumers make the effort.