7% of global electricity is generated from Solar

Solar energy is a sustainable and clean form of energy harnessed from the natural power of the sun. As a form of low-carbon energy, it plays a significant role in tackling climate change and reducing air pollution. By converting sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells or solar thermal systems, solar energy provides an alternative to fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas that emit high levels of greenhouse gases. The growing deployment of solar energy technologies worldwide underscores its potential to significantly contribute to clean electricity generation and to help shape a greener future.

The process of generating electricity from solar energy typically involves solar panels, which are made up of numerous solar cells containing semiconductor materials, like silicon. When sunlight strikes these cells, it excites electrons, resulting in an electric current. This current is then captured and converted into usable electricity via an inverter, which changes the direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) that can be fed into the grid and used in homes, businesses, or industries. Solar thermal systems, on the other hand, concentrate solar energy to heat a fluid, creating steam that powers a turbine to generate electricity. Both methods are efficient pathways for harnessing the sun's vast energy potential for electricity generation.

One of the numerous advantages of solar energy lies in its status as a low-carbon technology, boasting an average carbon intensity of just 45 gCO2eq/kWh. This is significantly lower than fossil fuels such as coal, which has a carbon intensity of 820 gCO2eq/kWh, demonstrating solar's potential to fight against climate change by minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. Alongside other low-carbon energy sources like wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh) and nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), solar energy provides an essential tool in the global efforts towards decarbonization and cleaner electricity generation.

Globally, the positive momentum of solar energy is evident as it now generates about 7% of all electricity consumed, illustrating its rapidly growing role in the clean electricity sector. In regions including Nevada, New Mexico, Australia, Arizona, and Texas, solar's share ranges from 8% to 29% of electricity generation, showcasing its viable contribution to local electricity grids. This expansion is a testament to solar energy's adaptability and its importance in diverse geographic areas with varying solar irradiance, and it highlights how different regions can maximize their local renewable potential towards sustainable development.

As a clean energy advocate, it is inspiring to witness solar energy’s rising contribution alongside other critical low-carbon sources, such as wind and nuclear energy. Together, these forms of green energy represent a formidable force against the use of fossil fuels, which are notorious for contributing to climate change and air pollution. With the ongoing global demand for sustainable and clean electricity sources, investing in and expanding the deployment of solar and nuclear energy will be vital to ensure a future that meets both electrification needs and environmental goals. Ultimately, a strong focus on low-carbon technologies like solar and nuclear will pave the way to a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable future for all.