I like the idea of solar energy, but I also wonder about how safe it is to use. I'm thinking of events such as the 1815 volcanic eruption of Mount Tambora[0] which reportedly caused a "year without summer[1]".

Presumably, something like this would have a major impact on solar cell energy output, and if we'd significantly depended on solar, would have catastrophic consequences for our society. Unless, of course, I overestimate the effect that volcanic ash could have on solar cells.

[0] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1815_eruption_of_Mount_Tambora

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Year_Without_a_Summer