Core Insights - Solar power generation costs have reached a historic low, with prices as low as £0.02 per kilowatt-hour in sunny countries, making it more economical than coal, natural gas, and even wind energy [1] - The research indicates that solar photovoltaic technology is becoming a key driver in the global transition to clean energy, with solar power now the most cost-effective option for large-scale electricity generation even in countries like the UK [1] - The global installed solar capacity is expected to exceed 1.5 terawatts in 2024, doubling since 2020, which is sufficient to meet the electricity needs of millions of households [1] Group 1 - The significant drop in lithium-ion battery prices by 89% since 2010 has made "solar + storage" systems competitively priced compared to natural gas generation [1] - Hybrid systems combining solar panels with batteries are now standard configurations in many regions, allowing for energy storage and controlled release, thus aiding grid stability [1] Group 2 - The integration of increasing solar power into existing grids poses a major challenge, with smart grids, AI forecasting, and regional grid interconnections being crucial for maintaining system stability [2] - The deep integration of storage technology with smart grids is enabling solar energy to achieve reliable, economical, and clean large-scale supply [2] - Innovations in materials, such as perovskite solar cells, have the potential to increase generation efficiency by 50% without requiring additional land [2] - Long-term policy support is essential for sustainable development in the solar sector, as clear policy direction can effectively stimulate investment and innovation [2]
太阳能已成全球最经济能源