According to a recent study by IIT Delhi, India’s solar energy output is at risk due to air pollution, which drastically lowers the country’s capacity to generate solar energy. The study, which was published in Environmental Research Letters, demonstrates how atmospheric aerosol buildup is obstructing sunlight, reducing the amount of solar radiation that reaches photovoltaic (PV) panels. According to the study, the average photovoltaic potential in India may decrease by 2.3% to 3.3%by 2050 compared to the baseline from 1985 to 2014.

Furthermore, the issue is made worse by rising surface temperatures brought on by climate change. The efficiency of solar panels is predicted to decrease as cell temperatures rise, with losses ranging from 600 GWh to 840 GWh each year. Major solar parks are located in the northern, western, and southern regions, which will experience the most severe impact.

Climate Action and Air Pollution Mitigation Are Critical

Two scenarios are assessed in the study: SSP5-8.5 (weak climate action with strong pollution control) and SSP2-4.5 (moderate climate action with intermediate pollution control). High aerosol levels cause a greater decrease in solar potential in SSP2-4.5, while warming has a more noticeable effect in SSP5-8.5. The results show that to offset these losses, immediate steps to reduce air pollution are required, including stronger emissions controls and improved policies for renewable energy.

To lessen these consequences, India has already started several programs, such as the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and the development of solar infrastructure. However, the researchers emphasize that India’s renewable energy ambitions will be in jeopardy if a combined strategy focusing on pollution reduction and climate resilience is not implemented.

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Policy Recommendations for a Sustainable Energy Future

The researchers suggest enhancing site selection for future solar installations, creating photovoltaic modules with lower temperature coefficients, and incorporating real-time pollution predictions into energy planning to maintain solar energy output. In order to improve future projections and maximize solar panel performance in various locations, they also stress the necessity of high-resolution climate models.

The report emphasizes that vigorous air quality control must accompany India’s shift to renewable energy. India’s solar energy output is at risk due to air pollution, making it crucial for the country to implement proactive measures to minimize solar energy losses and ensure a stable and resilient energy future.

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