Understanding Solar Power

Solar power, also known as solar electricity, is the process of converting energy from sunlight directly into electricity. This can be achieved through two primary methods:

• Photovoltaics (PV): This method uses solar panels, which employ the photovoltaic effect to convert light directly into an electric current. PV systems range in scale from small devices like solar-powered calculators to large-scale rooftop installations and even massive power plants.
• Concentrated Solar Power: This technology uses lenses or mirrors and solar tracking systems to focus a large area of sunlight onto a small spot. This concentrated sunlight generates high heat, often used to drive a steam turbine and produce electricity.

The Growth of Solar Energy

Initially, photovoltaics were primarily used for small and medium-sized applications. However, since the 1980s, the cost of solar panels has dramatically decreased, leading to an explosive growth in grid-connected solar PV systems. Capacity and production have roughly doubled every three years. Today, solar power accounts for a significant portion of new electricity generation capacity globally.

Key Statistics and Trends

• In 2023, solar power generated 5.5% (1,631 TWh) of the world’s electricity and over 1% of primary energy, adding twice as much new electricity as coal.
• Along with onshore wind power, utility-scale solar is now the cheapest source of electricity for new installations in most countries.
• As of 2023, 33 countries generated more than a tenth of their electricity from solar, with China leading in solar growth.
• Almost half of the solar power installed in 2022 was on rooftops, demonstrating the growing popularity of distributed generation.

The Future of Solar Power

To meet the increasing demand for electricity and combat climate change, much more low-carbon power, including solar, is needed. While challenges remain in grid integration, policy, regulation, and financing, the International Energy Agency has emphasized the need for further efforts in these areas. Solar power has the potential to significantly reduce the cost of energy and play a crucial role in a sustainable energy future.