Read "Solar Basics" on the Energy Kids website. Specifically, read text under "Two limitations of solar energy". Use the information to answer the question. What factors affect the amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth's surface?

The amount of solar energy available varies by location on earth, the time of the day at that location, the season and weather conditions. Rain, fog, and clouds will lower the amount of solar power available to gather and there are fewer hours of sun available in different seasons (winter for North America). To gather solar power, you also need a large area. This can be lessened by conditions such as snow, so that even on a sunny day, covered panels will collect less energy.