Achieving Solar Dominance in Developing Countries: Key Technological Advancements Needed

Despite the urgent need for renewable energy solutions in developing countries, the timeline to make solar power the dominant power source by 2030 seems unattainable. While significant advancements in solar panel efficiency and storage technologies are crucial, achieving such a goal within the specified timeframe may be ambitious. This article explores the specific technological advancements required to make solar energy the dominant power source in developing countries by 2035, if not 2040.

Enhancing Solar Panel Efficiency

One key area that needs major technological advancement is the efficiency of solar panels. Currently, solar panels hover around 20-22% efficiency. To make a significant impact in developing countries, we need to double the efficiency to around 40% without a substantial increase in cost or reduction in durability. Unfortunately, even solar panels with 40% efficiency are currently not cost-competitive with commercially used panels. Multijunction solar panels, which can trap different frequencies of light, represent a promising solution. However, if cheaper battery storage becomes available, the necessity for increased panel efficiency might diminish.

Cheaper and More Efficient Battery Storage

Battery storage is a critical complement to solar power. Developing cheaper and more efficient storage solutions is paramount. Reducing the price of batteries by at least half or to one-third of the current price would be a significant step. Another alternative is the production of hydrogen using solar panels. If hydrogen can be made cheaply, the necessity for advanced solar panel efficiency would be reduced. The process of electrolysing water into hydrogen is also crucial, with current technology requiring approximately 50 kWh to produce a kg of hydrogen. There is room for improvement, especially in developing electrolysis equipment that can handle intermittent power sources like solar energy more effectively.

Improving Hydrogen Storage and Fuel Cells

Hydrogen storage is another area that needs significant innovation. Current methods of storing hydrogen, such as under high pressure or liquid state, come with their own drawbacks and require considerable amounts of energy. Developing a material that can store hydrogen more efficiently would revolutionize the process. For example, a material with an internal microscopic honeycomb pattern could provide greater areas for hydrogen storage, making the process more manageable and energy-efficient.

Additionally, cheaper and more efficient fuel cells and batteries are needed to replace existing internal combustion engines economically. Advanced technology could convert hydrogen and CO2 into methane, diesel, or jet fuel. Methane is easier to store and use, making the process much more practical. This conversion would also be carbon-neutral, as CO2 is used in the production of methane.

Conclusion

In summary, achieving solar dominance in developing countries by 2035 or 2040 will require a combination of advanced solar panel efficiency, cheaper and more efficient battery storage, and improvements in hydrogen storage and fuel cell technology. While the timeline may seem challenging, the pursuit of these technological advancements is essential for a sustainable future. The development of these technologies will not only enhance the reliability and efficiency of solar energy but also lead to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a more sustainable energy landscape.