Future potential of solar energy

What is the future of solar energy?

The Future of Solar Energy considers only the two widely recognized classes of technologies for converting solar energy into electricity — photovoltaics (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP), sometimes called solar thermal) — in their current and plausible future forms.

How will the future of solar energy be shaped?

Changes across the wider energy system, like the increased electrification of buildings and vehicles, emergence of clean fuels, and new commitments to both equitability and a more circular, sustainable economy, will shape the future of solar energy.

What is the solar futures study?

The Solar Futures Study examines how the large-scale addition of solar, wind, and other renewables impact the grid’s reliability and resilience. Energy storage, long distance transmission, flexible renewable generators, and strategic solar and wind curtailment are all important tools in this transition.

What is the NREL solar futures study?

Read more about the key findings of the report in an NREL fact sheet or on the DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office website. The Solar Futures Study is the most comprehensive review to date of the potential role of solar in decarbonizing the U.S. energy system.

Is solar photovoltaics ready to power a sustainable future?

A low energy demand scenario for meeting the 1.5 °C target and sustainable development goals without negative emission technologies. Nat. Energy 3, 515–527 (2018). Victoria, M. et al. Solar photovoltaics is ready to power a sustainable future. Joule vol. 5 1041–1056 (Cell Press, 2021). Nemet, G.

Will solar power the future of Transportation?

The Solar Futures Study finds that solar energy could power about 14% of transportation end uses by 2050. Solar PV couples well to electric vehicle (EV) charging: Both use direct-current electricity, which avoids efficiency losses in conversion to alternating-current electricity—a much as 26% lost, in some cases.