Impact of Climate Change and Air Pollution on Solar Panel Performance in India

A recent study by IIT Delhi highlights the effects of climate change and air pollution on solar panel efficiency in India, published in Environmental Research Letters in November 2024.

India's Solar Power Ambitions

• India is the fifth-largest solar power producer globally.
• Targets to derive 50% of electric power from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.
• Plans to install 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with a significant portion from solar power.

Challenges due to Climate and Air Pollution

Solar photovoltaic energy is heavily influenced by weather and climate conditions:

• India experiences 300 sunny days annually, but their quality is reduced by air pollution.
• Long-term variations in solar radiation, like global dimming and brightening, affect performance.
• Factors such as clouds, aerosols, and particulates reduce the solar radiation reaching panels.

Study Methodology and Findings

The study utilized data from 1985 to 2014 to project changes for 2041-2050 using global climate models and NASA's CERES project:

• Two scenarios were studied: moderate climate efforts vs. weak climate efforts with strong pollution control.
• Predicted a 2.3% decline in solar panel efficiency by mid-century under the second scenario.
• Estimated annual electricity loss of at least 840 gigawatt-hours due to reduced efficiency.
• Temperature rise expected to significantly impact solar cell performance, with a 2°C increase in cell temperature by mid-century.

Regional Insights and Recommendations

• Certain regions like India's northeast and Kerala may see increased solar potential due to reduced cloud cover.
• Study suggests prioritizing areas with higher potential for future solar projects.
• Emphasizes the need to curb climate change and improve air quality to maximize solar potential.

Call to Action

• Encourages reducing greenhouse gas emissions and public adoption of sustainable practices, like electric vehicles and public transportation.
• Highlights the importance of effective policy implementation to achieve solar energy goals.