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.

Are solar photovoltaics ready to power a sustainable future?

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Will solar power continue to grow in 2050?

Photovoltaics (PV) and concentrating solar power are likely to continue to grow rapidly—the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) projects solar energy could provide 45% of the electricity in the United States by 2050 if the energy system is fully decarbonized—and technology costs are projected to continue to decline .

How do solar panels turn sunlight into electricity?

There are several ways to turn sunlight into usable energy, but almost all solar energy today comes from “solar photovoltaics (PV).” Solar PV relies on a natural property of “semiconductor” materials like silicon, which can absorb the energy from sunlight and turn it into electric current.

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.

Could solar power be a revolution?

It could lead to lower-cost, more efficient systems for powering homes, cars, boats and drones. The solar energy world is ready for a revolution. Scientists are racing to develop a new type of solar cell using materials that can convert electricity more efficiently than today's panels.