7% of global electricity is generated from Solar

Solar energy is a clean and sustainable energy source that harnesses the power of sunlight to generate electricity. This abundant energy source is captured through technologies such as photovoltaic (PV) panels and concentrated solar power systems. PV panels, which are commonly seen on rooftops and in large solar farms, convert sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductors. When sunlight strikes the semiconductors, it dislodges electrons, creating an electric current. Concentrated solar power systems work differently by using mirrors to focus sunlight onto a small area, generating intense heat that is then used to produce electricity in a conventional steam turbine.

The integration of solar power into global electricity grids is a testament to its effectiveness as a reliable and environmentally-friendly energy source. Solar energy contributes to around 7% of the world's electricity consumption. This is a significant achievement and points to a global shift towards more sustainable electricity production. In certain regions, the penetration of solar energy is even higher; for example, in Nevada, over a third of electricity is generated from solar, while California generates nearly 30% of its electricity from the sun. New Mexico, Arizona, and Australia also show impressive adoption rates of 17%, 16%, and 20% respectively. These numbers highlight the critical role solar plays in our transition to low-carbon electricity.

The carbon intensity of solar energy is remarkably low at 45 gCO2eq/kWh, which represents its support of a cleaner, healthier planet. When compared to fossil fuels such as coal and oil, which have carbon intensities of 820 gCO2eq/kWh and 650 gCO2eq/kWh respectively, the benefits of solar become strikingly clear. Like other low-carbon sources such as wind, which has a carbon intensity of 11 gCO2eq/kWh, and nuclear at 12 gCO2eq/kWh, solar energy is instrumental in mitigating climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Solar power, along with nuclear and wind, represents the vanguard of low-carbon energy technologies essential for decreasing our carbon footprint. With more electricity growth powered by clean energy like solar and nuclear, we can support a sustainable future that addresses climate change proactively. This transition to clean electricity is not only pivotal for the environment but also crucial for meeting future electricity demands driven by technological advances like AI and the electrification of various sectors across global economies. Encouraging the expansion of solar and nuclear energy, we can look forward to a future where low-carbon electricity powers our world.