According to the IEA, solar-generated electricity could account for as much as 25 percent of global production by 2050. This week, the energy organization released a report that includes roadmaps for both photovoltaic technology and concentrating solar power. Both of these options are becoming increasingly common around the world, especially when it comes to utility-scale projects that can power thousands of homes.
"The combination of solar photovoltaics and concentrating solar power offers considerable prospects for enhancing energy security while reducing energy-related CO2 emissions by almost six billion tonnes per year by 2050," said Nobuo Tanaka, executive director of the IEA.
In total, both solar technologies could generate 9,000 terawatt hours of energy by 2050. Areas with the sunniest and clearest skies are said to be well suited for concentrating solar projects, while photovoltaic technology is cited for its potential for on-grid distribution and off-grid production in more remote areas.
Along with solar, other industries such as wind, geothermal and biomass are also seen in many quarters as being poised to make growing contributions to the world's energy needs.
