The Sun of Solar Demand Rises
According to the International Energy Agency, the global demand for PV modules is expected to surpass 675GW in 2035 - a number that could easily keep a city the size of New York running bright-and then some. "Energy Technology Perspectives 2024" from the IEA maps out a solar future that's just about as inescapable as the rising sun.
Solar’s Stellar Growth
From 450GW in 2021 to an astonishing 1.2TW by 2023, the global manufacturing capacity for photo-voltaic modules seems to leap from a mere small flashlight to the best lighthouse in just two or three years. And if all the planned expansions come through, by 2030, the entire supply chain could hit approximately 1TW, with the module segment alone blowing past 1.6TW. Can you imagine that size of a solar farm?
The Solar Horizon in 2035
Let me put this into perspective: what does 675GW of global demand for PV modules mean to the industry? It means that solar is no longer the new kid on the block; it is the star quarterback. By 2050, solar PV is expected to account for half of the global nominal electricity generation capacity. That is a game-changer, folks.
The Southeast Asia Solar Sprint
Watch out, as less than a decade from now Southeast Asia will be among the lowest cost producers of polysilicon, wafers, and modules. That is like being in the starting blocks, ready to sprint ahead in the solar race.
Solar Shift in India
And what about India? They, too, are not sitting on the fence. By 2035, they will go from being a net importer to a net exporter of clean technologies. Many in the analyst community must feel like they have been watching a football team that could never score a goal suddenly get up and kick in the winning score.
The Big Question
But the million-dollar question is, what would that do to the global economy in light of our fight against climate change? It is not just about the numbers; it is about the consequence to our planet.
A Glimpse into the Solar Playground
The report from the IEA goes on to say how emerging and developing economies are contributing phenomenally to the clean energy sector. Pretty cool to see a team of underdogs rise right up to the top in their game, and then begin utilizing the competitive advantage to move up the value chain.
The Final Spark
So, looking ahead to 2035, may our eyes stay fixed on the prize: a world chugging along on the endless fuel of the sun. It is not just a prognosis; it is a promise for a brighter, greener future.
Remember, every morning the sun rises anew to break a new record in demand for solar energy. Well, let us keep this going and make sure we are in this solar success story. After all, it is not about reaching 675 GW but how we get there.
