As the country steps up its renewable energy efforts in an attempt to cut carbon emissions, solar power installations are increasing rapidly. In fact, along with wind, solar photovoltaic power is the most established low-carbon energy technology. However, the United States is not the only country that pushes people toward solar energy. Actually, the entire world is promoting clean energy sources like solar power. That’s why today, we’ll take a look at a few statistics and facts in order to find out what other countries offer solar.
China
China is known as the nation with the largest population and carbon footprint. Yet, over the past decade, the government has made it clear that they want to reduce their pollution by switching to clean energy sources. According to official data, the country installed 53 GW of photovoltaic capacity in 2021 alone. Therefore, its total capacity has reached 306 GW and is expected to increase in the coming years.
To put China’s commitment to solar into perspective, you need to understand that they represent 33% of total global installations. China has also been working on its massive solar farms. Satellite images have shown multiple farms popping up all over China. Their purpose is to generate and then sell the energy to utilities, eventually replacing the need for fossil fuels.
When it comes to residential solar installations, China is encouraging financial institutions to provide solar incentives. Unlike other nations that curb these governmental programs, China has recently increased its support. As a result, it’s clear that this nation will soon become one of the leading advocates of solar power.
India
India’s rise as a leader in photovoltaic capacity has been quite impressive. After years of struggle, they finally achieved significant growth in 2019 and have since reached a whopping 10% share of the global PV market. While they still have a long way to go, India is committed to solar energy.
Most of the country’s capacity was installed at utility plants, accounting for the majority of the 40 GW of new installed capacity for 2021. However, there’s a strong incentive for homeowners to accept solar energy in their homes. As a matter of fact, the Indian government can assist in reducing the net cost of solar PV panels from anywhere between 30 and 50 percent. Therefore, we’re expecting to see India’s PV capacity continue to grow in the following years.
Germany
Germany is a solar energy powerhouse as it has reached over 59 GW of installed PV capacity in 2021. That’s why they are considered the leading European country for solar deployments. But Germany’s growth is not slowing down. Instead, the German government proposed increasing its 2030 solar installation target to 100.
What’s interesting about Germany is that small-scale, private installations are very common. That’s thanks to government support mechanisms like remuneration for excess energy generation. But utility-scale projects are also growing. As we speak, Germany is working on its largest solar project to date, which is a 187-megawatt facility located northeast of Berlin. So, it’s safe to say that Germany is in it for the long run and won’t give up on solar energy anytime soon.
Japan
Last but not least, Japan stands out from all other pro-solar countries. As one of the most densely populated nations in the world, Japan doesn’t really have the necessary space to install large-scale solar farms. But even so, it managed to become a world leader in solar generation.
So how did they do that? Simply put, Japan has transformed the majority of its abandoned golf courses into solar farms. They also created floating solar islands with thousands of water-resistant solar panels. As a result, today, Japan has a photovoltaic capacity of almost 64 GW, which is incredible considering its lack of open space. And similar to most solar-friendly countries, Japan is also providing its inhabitants with solar incentives for residential installations, further increasing the country’s capacity.
Solar Energy — A Worldwide Solution
There’s no doubt that fossil fuels are no longer a reliable source of energy. Not only are they limited, but they also pollute the environment. That’s why countries all over the world are embracing renewable energy sources, specifically solar power. From the United States and Germany to Japan and China, every country is doing its best to save the planet. And with hard work and a bit of luck, the world might be able to fully switch to solar and wind power in the near future.
If you want to learn more about solar energy and how it can help your household, make sure to check out Atlantic Key Energy’s vast knowledge center.
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