Solar power is vital for China's future energy pathways to achieve the goal of 2060 carbon neutrality. Previous studies have suggested that China's solar energy resource potential surpass the projected nationwide power demand in 2060, yet the uncertainty quantification and cost competitiveness of such resource potential are less studied.
Why is solar energy important in China?
Among the many renewable energy sources, solar energy is focused on because of its unique cleanliness, low cost, high efficiency, and abundant reserves [ 2 ]. China has a vast territory, abundant solar energy resources, and huge resource potential.
If this is all used for solar power generation, the annual power generation can reach up to 1.55 times the electricity consumption of urban and rural residents for the whole society. Through a comprehensive evaluation of energy efficiency and economic benefits, the Chinese mainland can be divided into three types of resource areas.
How to estimate China's solar PV power generation potential?
This study aims to estimate China's solar PV power generation potential by following three main steps: suitable sites selection, theoretical PV power generation and total cost of the system.
Why is photovoltaics important in China?
Photovoltaics (PV), a primary form of solar energy utilization, has become pivotal in addressing the energy deficit while fostering economic growth. China, since the early 21st century, has made renewable energy a cornerstone of its future energy plans, actively supporting its development .
The findings unveiled in this study indicate that China still has more than 6.4 billion m 2 of rural construction area available for the installation of PV modules. If this is all used for solar power generation, the annual power generation can reach up to 1.55 times the electricity consumption of urban and rural residents for the whole society.
How much does solar PV cost in China?
Province-level solar PV supply curves in China were constructed. PV technical potential was estimated around 39.6 PWh to 442 PWh. The uncertainty of PV technical potential was quantified. The cost of PV ranges from 0.12 CNY/kWh to 7.93 CNY/kWh. China's PV economic potential far exceeds its projected electricity demand.