https://www.surrey.ac.uk/news/solar-energy-now-worlds-cheapest-source-power-surrey-study-finds This website uses cookies Some of these cookies are necessary and are used to help make our site work. With your consent, we will also use cookies to improve your experience, analyse site usage and assist in our marketing efforts. By clicking 'Accept all', you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn more about these cookies and manage your preferences at any time on our cookies page . Necessary Necessary [*] These cookies enable essential website functions and ensure the site operates properly. They do not store personally identifiable information. While you can disable them in your browser settings, some features may not function correctly. Analytics Analytics [ ] These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website by collecting anonymous usage data. We use this information to improve website performance and enhance your experience. 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Credit: Getty Images [GettyImages-2167474866_0] In a study published in Energy and Environment Materials, researchers from Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) argue that solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is now the key driver of the world's transition to clean, renewable power. ` Even here in the UK, a country that sits 50 degrees north of the equator, solar is the cheapest option for large-scale energy generation. Globally, the total amount of solar power installed passed 1.5 terawatts in 2024 - twice as much as in 2020 and enough to power hundreds of millions of homes. Simply put, this technology is no longer a moonshot prospect but a foundational part of the resilient, low-carbon energy future that we all want to bring to reality. ' Professor Ravi Silva, Distinguished Professor, Interim Director - Institute for Sustainability (IfS), Director - Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) and Head of NanoElectronics Centre [Ravi] The research team also found that the price of lithium-ion batteries has fallen by 89% since 2010, making solar-plus-storage systems as cost-effective as gas power plants. These hybrid setups, which combine solar panels with batteries, are now standard in many regions and allow solar energy to be stored and released when needed, turning it into a more reliable, dispatchable source of power that helps balance grid demand. Despite many reasons to be optimistic, the ATI research team points to several challenges - particularly connecting large amounts of solar power to existing electricity networks. In some regions, such as California and China, high solar generation has led to grid congestion and wasted energy when supply exceeds demand. ` Connecting growing levels of solar power to electricity networks is now one of the biggest challenges. Smart grids, artificial intelligence forecasting and stronger links between regions will be vital to keep power systems stable as renewable energy use rises. ' Dr Ehsan Rezaee, Research Fellow [E] ` With the integration of energy storage and smart grid technologies, solar is now capable of delivering reliable, affordable and clean power at scale. Innovations in materials such as perovskite solar cells could boost energy output by up to 50% without increasing land use. "However, progress will depend on consistent, long-term policy support. Initiatives such as the Inflation Reduction Act in the US, the EU's REPowerEU plan and India's Production Linked Incentive scheme show how clear direction can drive investment and innovation. Sustained commitment and international collaboration will be essential if we are to accelerate the world's transition to a clean and reliable energy system. ' Professor Ravi Silva, Distinguished Professor, Interim Director - Institute for Sustainability (IfS), Director - Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) and Head of NanoElectronics Centre [Ravi] ### Notes to editors * Professor Ravi Silva is available for interview; please contact mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk to arrange. * The full paper can be found here. Related sustainable development goals Affordable and Clean Energy UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 logo Sustainable Cities and Communities UN Sustainable Development Goal 11 logo Climate Action UN Sustainable Development Goal 13 logo Share what you've read? * Facebook * Twitter * LinkedIn * Sustainability * Technology and Society Featured Academics --------------------------------------------------------------------- Prof Ravi Silva Prof Ravi Silva Distinguished Professor, Interim Director - Institute for Sustainability (IfS), Director - Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) and Head of NanoElectronics Centre profile picture Dr Ehsan Rezaee Research Fellow Media Contacts --------------------------------------------------------------------- External Communications and PR team Phone: +44 (0)1483 684380 / 688914 / 684378 Email: mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk Out of hours: +44 (0)7773 479911 Footer menu * Study + A to Z course list + Undergraduate courses + Postgraduate courses + Research courses + Pathway programmes + International students + CPD and short courses + Open days * About + Faculties and schools + Job opportunities + In the community + Library + Sustainability * Information for + Staff + Current students + Media + Schools and colleges + Visitors + Employers + Suppliers * Contact us + Contact us + Campus map (PDF) Accessibility | Data protection | Cookies | Disclaimer | Freedom of information | Modern Slavery Statement (PDF) (c) University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, United Kingdom. +44 (0)1483 300800