Context:
A study published in Nature Sustainability states that air pollution reduced India’s solar power generation by 9.6% in 2023, equivalent to about 15 TWh of electricity. The study highlights how aerosols and fine particles reduce sunlight reaching solar panels, thereby affecting renewable energy output.
Explanation:
- Solar power generation depends on the amount of sunlight reaching photovoltaic panels; air pollution reduces this by scattering and absorbing solar radiation.
- Aerosols are fine particles such as sulphates, black carbon, organic carbon, nitrates and dust, suspended in the atmosphere.
- These particles reduce solar irradiance, lowering the efficiency of solar photovoltaic systems.
- India’s solar losses are significant because many solar farms are located near or downwind of coal power plants and polluted regions.
- The study used satellite data, atmospheric observations and machine-learning methods to assess pollution-related solar losses.
- Reducing emissions from coal plants, vehicles and industries can improve both air quality and solar energy generation
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