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Future possibilities of solar energy

Future possibilities of solar energy

Solar energy is growing in popularity. MCS say they’ve certified over 1.7 million UK renewable installations as of 2023. With solar technology improving, experts are now predicting what’s to come next.

Reduced cost and maintenance

IRENA released a report, stating that the cost of solar PV dropped between 2010 and 2019 globally by 82%. This number is expected to continue dropping. As solar panels become cheaper, they’re also advancing. Longer-lasting solar cells, new materials like perovskites and improved manufacturing processes are some of the recent solar improvements.

Solar technology is becoming more durable too. This has led to longer lifespans. This means less maintenance needs to be carried out. This makes them further desirable for individuals and businesses.

Increased adoption

There’s a wide range of benefits that come with installing solar panels. This includes lower energy bills, reduced carbon footprint and increased home value. These factors are becoming more known to people, making solar energy increasingly popular. With the Government encouraging solar power and prices continuing to lower, more adoption is highly likely.

Solar power is predicted to become more popular in developing countries as well. Solar energy makes electricity more accessible. It also creates jobs and promotes energy independence.

Increased governmental support and incentives

The Labour Government have set out strong visions for increasing solar power usage in the UK. By 2030, Labour wants to triple the amount of solar power in the UK. They’re planning to create a publicly owned company called Great British Energy as well. They will partner with energy companies to install clean power projects like onshore wind, hydropower and solar.

Other countries are also setting renewable energy targets. Germany has set a goal to reach 80% renewable energy by 2030. By 2040, Sweden wants to have 100% fossil-free renewable electricity production. And New Zealand wants to have 100% renewable electricity by 2030. We’re highly likely to see a global increase in solar energy over the next decade.

Improved storage

The amount of energy that solar panels generate can depend on different factors. This includes shading from clouds, sunlight and temperature. With advanced batteries, storing energy to use when needed has become easier. This stored electricity can be used whenever necessary, like during a power cut or at night when there’s less light. It’s predicted that this kind of technology will only continue to get better.

Improved technology

Solar power is constantly advancing, and it’s expected to get even better. AI is something which could be seen more. An example of this is predictive maintenance. This is when data detects when equipment is going to fail before it does. AI systems could be used more in this way, particularly on solar farms.

Scientists at Oxford University Physics Department have recently developed a new light-absorbing material. This is flexible and can be applied to most buildings and common objects. The material allows for more power to be generated. Groundbreaking technology like this is constantly being discovered.

Solar powered vehicles

Solar panels are being incorporated into items like phone chargers and drones. But is this a possibility for vehicles?

Research for this has actually been going on for a while. In 1955, William G. Cobb designed the Sunmobile. This was only 15 inches long. Since then, manufacturers have been looking into how this could become a reality for road vehicles.

The idea of solar cars is that they’ll run on solar energy. Although there’re many prototypes in development, there’re limitations to building solar cars. A car would need to have many solar panels installed, but this is difficult when a car’s design has limited space. Solar panels are also heavy, which is a disadvantage too. With lightweight solar surfaces developing, this may however be a possibility in the future.

Mypower – solar specialists

Mypower has provided solar power services for a range of industries since 2010. This includes industrial solar panels, commercial solar panels and agricultural solar panels. We’re dedicated to securing and futureproofing people’s electricity. As well as this, reducing carbon footprint is something we’re passionate about and help consumers with.

Most of the solar panels we install are manufactured by QCells or Trina. Both companies are award-winning in their field and create outstanding solar panels. Based on the latest research, their designs and technology are created to boost production as much as possible. Find out more and contact us here.  

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