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India has placed solar energy at the heart of its climate mitigation strategy, aiming to install 100 GW of solar power by 2030. However, a recent study published in Environmental Research Letters suggests that climate change and air pollution could undermine the efficiency of solar photovoltaics in the future. The study, conducted by researchers at the Centre for Atmospheric Sciences, IIT Delhi, analyzed radiation data from CMIP6 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project – Phase 6) to assess the impact of changing weather patterns and air pollution on solar photovoltaic (PV) performance. Using historical data from 1985 to 2014, the researchers projected future trends for 2041-2050 and found that the efficiency of solar panels could decline by 3.3% by mid-century. Projected Impact on Solar Power Generation Estimated Power Loss: India could lose between 600 to 840 gigawatt-hours (GWh) annually, based on current solar energy production levels. Solar Radiation and Efficiency: The availability of solar radiation, along with factors like ambient temperature, surface winds, and humidity, play a critical role in determining solar PV output. Scenarios for Future Impact: The study explored two possible future emission scenarios – one with moderate air pollution control and climate mitigation, and another with strong pollution control but weaker climate action. The first scenario showed greater efficiency loss, highlighting the need for aggressive pollution reduction.Given India’s ambitious renewable energy targets, experts emphasize the importance of strong policy measures to counteract the adverse effects of climate change and air pollution on solar power generation. |
