Core Insights - A recent study from the University of Surrey indicates that the cost of solar power has 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 highlights that solar photovoltaic technology is becoming a key driver in the global transition to clean energy, with solar power emerging as the most cost-effective option for large-scale electricity generation even in countries like the UK [1] - The global installed solar capacity is projected to exceed 1.5 terawatts in 2024, doubling from 2020 levels, which is sufficient to meet the electricity needs of millions of households [1] Cost Competitiveness - Since 2010, the price of lithium-ion batteries has decreased by 89%, enhancing the cost competitiveness of "solar + storage" systems, which are now comparable to natural gas power generation [1] - The combination of photovoltaic panels and batteries has become a standard configuration in many regions, allowing for the storage of excess energy and its release on demand, thus transforming solar energy into a stable and controllable power source [1] Challenges and Innovations - Integrating the growing solar power into existing grids is currently the biggest 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, are expected to enhance generation efficiency by 50% without requiring additional land [2] Policy Support - The sustainable development of the solar sector relies on long-term policy support, with clear policy directions effectively stimulating investment and innovation [2] - Accelerating the global energy system's green transition requires ongoing investment and international cooperation [2]

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]