Solar power needs an integrated approach

Nonetheless, the current energy mix includes only a small portion of these highly abundant resources. The situation is somewhat changing, but in fact the evolution of the solar power (photovoltaic and concentrated solar thermal power) market will be capable of meeting the expectations only with further technological innovation and policies committed to overcome the barriers that hinder its development.

According to Solar Energy Perspectives, a study recently published by the International Energy Agency (IEA), photovoltaic solar energy and concentrating solar power will be able to meet more than 30% of the global energy demand by 2060.

In order to achieve this target, IEA considers that a political commitment is particularly necessary. The aim is to establish national systems that will integrate every solar technology (PV, thermodynamic, thermal, heating and cooling, passive technologies, etc.) within the broader range of low-carbon technologies, which are also essential for a sustainable future and a more secure energy mix.

Moreover, the study, which offers various solutions to harness solar technologies with the best results, emphasizes the need to plan – also at a global level – policies that can support investments aimed at promoting the widespread use of these technologies in the Earth’s sunniest regions.

www.iea.org/files/Solar_Energy_Perspectives.pdf