Understanding the Local Environmental Impacts of Large-Scale Solar PV Plants

Solar photovoltaic (PV) is among the most widely deployed renewable energy technologies worldwide and is set for a rapid expansion over the coming decades. By the end of 2024, solar PV had contributed 77% of annual capacity additions and 42% of total installed renewable energy capacity. From 2015 to 2024, global total installed solar PV capacity increased by over eightfold. This rapid expansion was driven by declining costs, technological innovations and efficiency improvements, as well as supporting policies and incentives. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency’s (IRENA’s) 1.5°C Scenario, solar PV is expected to play a vital role in achieving the energy transition aligned with the Paris Agreement's climate target, contributing half of the total needed renewable capacity and 37% of renewable electricity generation by 2050.