2024 Trends Report: Renewable Energy and Solar Research Report
Foreword from Our CEO
In 2023, the renewable energy sector demonstrated remarkable resilience despite ongoing geopolitical challenges. The European Union raised its 2030 renewable consumption target to 42.5%, while the United States saw significant investments post the Inflation Reduction Act. The solar PV market thrived, with large and small systems accounting for two-thirds of the projected 2023 increase in global renewable capacity.
Executive Summary
2023 marked a year of substantial progress in the renewable energy industry. Key highlights include:
- Legislative Developments: The EU adopted a new Energy Directive, raising its 2030 renewable consumption target.
- Investment: Over $270 billion was invested in the US in the 18 months following the Inflation Reduction Act.
- Solar PV Growth: Solar PV systems made up two-thirds of the 2023 increase in global renewable capacity. Despite price fluctuations, solar PV continues to offer a 29% lower levelized cost of energy (LCOE) compared to the cheapest fossil fuel alternatives.
- Global Installed Capacity: Total solar module capacity installed worldwide reached 413 GW, representing a 58% increase from 2022.
Survey Insights
To understand the renewable sector's trajectory for 2024, a survey was conducted among 30 countries across six continents. Key findings include:
- Industry Sector: Over 88% of respondents work in the solar sector, with significant representation from storage and wind power sectors.
- Experience: 57% of respondents have worked in the energy industry for 5 to 15 years.
- Company Size: 60% of respondents work for organizations with less than 150 employees, while 7% work for organizations with over 5,000 employees.
Challenges for the Renewable Sector
The top challenges identified for the coming year include:
- Grid Saturation and Instability: 66.7% of respondents cited this as a major issue, up from 64% last year.
- Permits and Regulation: 56% of respondents highlighted this as a challenge.
- Land Availability: 17.9% of respondents noted land availability as an issue.
- Skilled Personnel: 35.7% of respondents emphasized the need for skilled personnel.
Key Trends and Innovations
- Storage Technologies: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are becoming increasingly important for managing the variability of renewable energy sources.
- Alternate PV Deployments: Agri-PV and floating solar systems are gaining traction.
- Digitalization: Digitalization and automation are essential for improving efficiency and reducing costs.
- Desired New Advances: Respondents expressed interest in new innovations and materials to enhance renewable energy technologies.
Success Factors for Leading Energy Players
- Grid Stabilization Methods: Effective use of storage and BESS to stabilize the grid.
- Diversification of Renewable Energy Sources: Expanding the portfolio of renewable energy sources.
- Investment in Digitalization and Automation: Enhancing operational efficiency through technology.
- Strong Labor Force: Ensuring a skilled workforce to support technological advancements.
- Diversification of Regional Operations: Expanding into different markets to mitigate risks.
Conclusion
The renewable energy sector is poised for continued growth and innovation. However, overcoming challenges such as grid management and ensuring skilled personnel will be crucial. The focus on digitalization and diversified renewable energy sources will drive the sector forward.
References
- IEA (International Energy Agency)
- BloombergNEF
- Aurora Energy Research
- NERC (North American Electric Reliability Corporation)