Solar panels are hard to come by

Why are solar energy systems declining?

A new study reveals key innovations that contributed to the rapid decline of solar energy systems, showing that many of the most significant technological advances came from outside the solar sector. This work could help businesses, researchers, and policymakers identify optimal areas for future investment.

What happened to solar panels in 2024?

Worldwide, 2024 was a difficult year for the residential solar market. After several years of 30 percent annual growth in installations, 2024 saw a decline: fewer panels were installed in many markets, and companies’ valuations declined. This led to large capital injections, major bankruptcies, and job losses.

Should solar panels be halved?

Halving panel prices over the past two years have led to rising solar adoption. Generation from solar mean emissions equivalent to about 1.6bn tonnes of CO₂ were avoided last year, roughly on a par with US power sector emissions, according to Ember. But there is nonetheless a less obvious cost.

Why is exporting solar power so difficult?

That makes exports to the US complicated under the Uyghur Forced Labour Prevention Act, which bars entry for any goods made with materials sourced from the region. Selling to India and Europe, two of the world’s largest and fastest-growing markets for solar power, is also becoming harder.