During a panel discussion on renewable energy, an expert claimed that significantly increasing investments in solar power could lead to a drastic reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. They argued that since solar energy production does not emit carbon dioxide, the shift from fossil fuels to solar power is essential for combating climate change. However, their argument overlooked how long it typically takes to fund and construct solar power systems, as well as the current dependency on fossil fuels for energy production.
To undermine the expert’s argument, one should consider which of the following statements would most directly weaken the assertion that increased investment in solar power will immediately combat climate change.