7% of global electricity is generated from Solar

Solar energy is a form of low-carbon energy derived from the sun's radiation. It is harnessed using technologies such as photovoltaic (PV) cells, which directly convert sunlight into electricity, and solar thermal systems, which capture and concentrate sunlight to produce heat that can power turbines or other mechanical engines to generate electricity. Solar energy is increasingly being recognized as a significant component of the global strategy to transition towards clean, sustainable, and green sources of electricity. When compared to the average carbon intensity of conventional fossil fuels like coal and oil, which stand at 820 gCO2eq/kWh and 650 gCO2eq/kWh respectively, solar energy—with a carbon intensity of only 45 gCO2eq/kWh—represents a much cleaner alternative and aligns well with broader environmental goals to reduce atmospheric carbon emissions and their associated impacts.

The process of generating electricity from solar energy primarily involves the use of solar panels, which contain PV cells made from semiconductor materials like silicon. When sunlight strikes a PV cell, energy from the light is absorbed, causing electrons in the semiconductor to become excited and generate an electric current, which can then be harnessed and used to power homes, businesses, and industries. The electricity generated by these panels is direct current (DC), so it is often converted to alternating current (AC) through an inverter, making it compatible with the electrical grid and everyday electronic devices.

One of the significant advantages of solar power is its contribution to diminishing carbon emissions. At 45 gCO2eq/kWh, solar energy rivals other low-carbon technologies like wind and nuclear, which have carbon intensities of 11 gCO2eq/kWh and 12 gCO2eq/kWh respectively. All these green energy sources are vital in combating climate change and minimizing air pollution, both of which are exacerbated by the use of high-carbon fossil fuels. Coal, for instance, generates a high 820 gCO2eq/kWh, illustrating the stark contrast in emissions between fossil fuels and these sustainable energy options.

Solar power's role in global electricity generation is notable, accounting for approximately 7% of the total electricity consumed globally. This marks a growing recognition of the importance of solar energy in the transition to a cleaner electricity mix. The rise in solar energy use is reflected in various countries; for example, Australia generates 18% of its electricity needs from solar power, showcasing its commitment to tapping renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the Netherlands also sees 18% of its electricity generated from solar, while in sunny regions like the United Arab Emirates, 8% of electricity comes from this clean source.

Spain and Greece are shining examples of how solar power can contribute significantly to national electricity grids, with each country generating 21% of its electricity from solar energy. This achievement underscores the potential for solar energy to play a dominant role in international efforts to embrace low-carbon technologies. The deployment of solar, alongside wind and nuclear, aids these countries in reaching ambitious climate goals and reducing their reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute heavily to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.

By emphasizing the benefits of solar along with wind and nuclear energy, these nations are setting a precedent for leveraging low-carbon sources. Collectively, these technologies promise to transform our electricity systems, making them more sustainable and environmentally friendly for future generations. As efforts to combat climate change intensify, the world must continue to expand its investment in, and deployment of, these clean energy technologies, further aiding the global commitment to sustainable development.