The solar power industry in India is facing a significant challenge, according to a recent report from Slovakia-based service provider Solargis. The report focuses on solar irradiance, specifically the difference between global horizontal irradiance (GHI) and long-term average (LTA) irradiance. GHI measures the total sunlight received by a unit area, which is crucial in assessing the solar energy potential of a location.
Unfortunately, the report reveals that in recent years, the difference between GHI and LTA has been decreasing in India. In 2024, most parts of the country experienced a decline in solar irradiation by 3% to 10%, indicating a trend below the average. The intense monsoon season in 2024, with rainfall exceeding the long-term average by nearly 8%, led to increased cloud cover, prolonged rainy periods, and extreme weather events, reducing sunlight availability for solar energy production. Regions like central India and the Western Ghats, as well as key solar power hubs like Gujarat and Maharashtra, experienced extended periods of below-average irradiation.
This 10% drop in solar irradiance is concerning as it may lead to solar generation falling below ‘P90 yield levels’, indicating viability concerns and financial challenges for solar energy projects. Experts attribute this decline in irradiance to climate change, which has disrupted precipitation patterns. As a result, it is essential for investors to consider climate change impacts before investing in renewable energy projects.
To address this challenge, the industry needs to focus on technology selection and prioritize life-cycle energy yield over initial efficiency. High-efficiency modules like perovskite-silicon tandem modules, which can absorb a wider spectrum of light and generate energy even in diffused light, may offer a solution. While technologies like perovskite-silicon tandem cells are still in development, immediate solutions like heterojunction (HJT) cells can help mitigate the impact of falling irradiance on solar energy generation.
In conclusion, recognizing and addressing the declining solar irradiance in India is crucial for the sustainability of the solar power industry. By investing in advanced technologies and adapting to changing climate conditions, the industry can overcome this challenge and ensure continued growth in solar energy production.
