Solar power's unstoppable rise: a new dawn in global energy

In a groundbreaking study, scientists assert that solar energy has reached a pivotal tipping point, ensuring its rapid and irreversible global proliferation.

Simrin Sirur reports for Mongabay.


In short:

  • The study predicts that solar energy, alongside wind power, will become the predominant electricity sources within the next two decades, outpacing all other forms of energy.
  • Key factors driving this shift include technological advancements, cost reductions, and significant investment increases in solar energy deployment, especially in India and China.
  • However, challenges such as grid resilience, financial accessibility, unstable mineral supply chains, and resistance from traditional industries could impede solar energy's full potential.

Key quote:

"Our analysis establishes quantitative empirical evidence, from current and historical data trends, that a solar energy tipping point is likely to have passed."

— Study authors

Visit EHN's energy section for more top news about energy, climate and health.

A person fueling a large truck with a yellow nozzle

Trump’s Russian diesel deal draws GOP, European pushback — and industry shrug

Trump’s plan to buy diesel from Russia is sparking a political backlash — and further ruptures in the transatlantic alliance — for a deal the oil industry says may never happen.

Three silhouetted figures watch a large fire burn in a field

As wildfires intensify, communities have a bigger role to play

As France confronts increasingly destructive wildfires, researchers say its largely top-down approach leaves residents with little role in preparing for them. In parts of the U.S., communities are experimenting with a different approach.
An old oven sitting in the middle of a destroyed building

What new research reveals about the dangers of smoke from urban firestorms

A study of Maui survivors found high amounts of toxic metals in their bodies for as long as 18 months after the fire. Another study found the Eaton Fire’s smoke had lead concentrations up to 250 times higher than normal.
A bunch of grapes on a vine

Climate change gives Swedish winemakers an unexpected boost

Nordic newcomers to the world of wine are toasting what they believe will be a vintage harvest, thanks, in no small part, to climate change.

Two men installing solar panels on a roof

How one Chicago program is diversifying the solar workforce

Founded by a former public-housing resident, the 548 Foundation provides training, stipends, and support to build Black generational wealth through clean energy.

A small tropical island viewed from the air

How rewilding could help atoll islands keep pace with rising seas

Healthy ecosystems may give some of the world’s most vulnerable islands a better shot at survival, new research shows.
Two young women wearing hijab

‘I am still a child, it cannot be good to be married’: how drought forces Afghan families to sell girls as brides

As climate breakdown pushes families to starvation, many feel forced to ‘sacrifice’ daughters to save siblings, with girls as young as 8 and 10 engaged or married to repay debts or pay for food.

From our Newsroom
Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro speaks with the state flag and American flag behind him.

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

silhouette of people holding hands by a lake at sunset

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

wildfire retardants being sprayed by plane

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.

Stay informed: sign up for The Daily Climate newsletter
Top news on climate impacts, solutions, politics, drivers. Delivered to your inbox week days.