Study on Development, Prospects, Challenges, and Applications of Solar Panels in Present Global Contest

Abstract

Solar power is a rapidly expanding renewable energy source that converts sunlight into electricity via photovoltaic (PV) cells. Over the last decade, global solar capacity has grown exponentially, fueled by decreasing technology costs and ambitious government climate goals. China, the US, and the EU lead in total installed capacity. Advancements in perovskite solar cells and bifacial panels are expected to further boost energy yields. Solar is anticipated to become the primary source of global electricity in the coming decades. However, intermittent generation necessitates significant investment in battery storage and grid upgrades. Supply chain issues for critical materials such as polysilicon, silver, and silicon persist. Beyond large-scale solar farms, applications include building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), floating solar on reservoirs, and agrivoltaics combining farming with solar panels. Flexible solar panels offer a breakthrough solution to structural limitations. Unlike rigid panels, they are lightweight and easily integrated onto various surfaces, including curved and uneven ones enabling industrial facilities to convert previously unusable spaces into energy-generating sites. Traditional panels often face space and structural challenges on rooftops and facades, leaving solar potential underused. Flexible panels stand out for their innovative design and technology. This review discusses key information, materials, advantages, applications, and the transformative role of solar technology in general and flexible solar technology in particular in the global energy landscape.