Rooftop Solar: Global Energy Solution
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Sussex has revealed that covering rooftops worldwide with solar panels has the potential to meet 65 per cent of the current global power demand, effectively replacing traditional fossil fuel-based electricity. Additionally, this widespread adoption of rooftop solar panels could lead to a significant reduction in global temperatures by approximately 0.13 degrees.
The study, published in the journal Nature, utilised advanced Earth system models, geospatial data mining, and artificial intelligence techniques to estimate that rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems could generate a staggering 19,500 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity annually. To put this into perspective, Australia’s yearly electricity consumption stands at around 250 TWh.
Global Rooftop Solar Potential
Through their research, the team determined that the total global rooftop area covers 286,393 square kilometres, with East Asia and North America hosting 30 per cent and 12 per cent of this area, respectively. Notably, China and the United States possess the largest concentration of rooftops, accounting for 74,426 square kilometres and 30,928 square kilometres, respectively.
Extrapolating the data further, the researchers calculated that if all suitable rooftops were equipped with solar panels, the potential annual electricity generation could reach 19,483 TWh. However, this estimation is based on existing building stocks, highlighting a disparity in the ability of less developed regions to benefit from this technology compared to more industrialised nations.
Impact on Global Warming
Moreover, the study explored the potential impact of global rooftop solar coverage on global warming. Depending on the models and scenarios considered, achieving complete rooftop solar coverage based on current building stocks could potentially mitigate global warming by 0.13–0.05 degrees Celsius.
Prof Felix Creutzig, a climate and policy researcher at the University of Sussex and one of the report’s authors, emphasised the economic and environmental advantages of solar power over nuclear energy. He highlighted that solar power surpasses nuclear energy in terms of cost-effectiveness, deployment speed, and environmental safety, urging policymakers worldwide to prioritise rooftop solar installations.
Creutzig stated, “Solar power offers superior value for money compared to nuclear energy. Governments should redirect their incentives towards rooftop PV installations instead of nuclear power. This shift is beneficial not only for reducing carbon emissions but also for promoting cleaner air and enhancing energy security.”
He further added, “With the vast untapped potential of solar energy, it is becoming increasingly challenging for governments to justify investments in nuclear energy or unproven carbon capture projects.”
It is evident from the study that embracing rooftop solar panels on a global scale could revolutionise the energy landscape, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional energy sources.
