Harnessing the power of the sun: A look into the solar energy, energy storage, and renewable energy markets

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Ashish Kolte / September 8, 2023 / 5 min read

As the push to electrify gains steam, home solar and energy storage are poised for major growth. This article summarizes the market outlook for solar energy, energy storage, and renewable energy. Learn more about how your business can capture this growth in the residential market by partnering with Panasonic.

In an era defined by environmental concerns and energy sustainability, the solar energy, energy storage, and renewable energy markets have emerged as pivotal players in shaping the global energy landscape. As the world seeks cleaner and more efficient alternatives to fossil fuels, these markets have experienced remarkable growth, driven by technological advancements, supportive policies, and shifting consumer preferences.

Solar energy

Market outlook

The solar energy market has witnessed exponential growth over the past decade, transitioning from a niche technology to a mainstream energy source. Solar photovoltaic (PV) installations have become more affordable and efficient, enabling widespread adoption in residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications. The global solar energy market is estimated to reach around USD 224 billion with a CAGR of nearly 20.5% over the forecast period.

Panasonic solar installer during an installation in South Florida. Photo credit: Panasonic Eco Systems

One of the driving factors behind this growth is the decreasing cost of solar technology. Advances in PV panel manufacturing techniques, improved energy conversion efficiencies, and economies of scale have significantly lowered the upfront costs of solar installations. Additionally, government incentives, tax credits, and renewable energy targets have spurred investment in solar projects, further propelling the market's expansion.

Market trends

Several trends are shaping the future of the solar energy market. Integrated solar solutions, such as solar panels incorporated into building materials or infrastructure, are gaining traction due to their seamless integration into existing structures. Moreover, bifacial solar panels, which can capture sunlight from both sides, are becoming more popular, boosting energy output without requiring additional space.

Energy storage solutions are becoming an integral part of the solar ecosystem. Battery storage systems enable the storage of excess solar energy generated during the day for use during nighttime or cloudy periods. This trend not only enhances the reliability of solar power but also contributes to grid stability and energy independence.

Energy storage

Market outlook

The energy storage market has emerged as a key enabler of renewable energy integration, addressing the intermittent nature of sources like solar and wind. Energy storage technologies, including lithium-ion batteries, pumped hydro storage, and advanced flow batteries, have experienced rapid advancements in efficiency, capacity, and affordability. As a result, the global energy storage market is expected to expand at a significant CAGR during the forecast period.

Panasonic technician installing an EVERVOLT home battery system. Photo credit: Panasonic Eco Systems

Market trends

One prominent trend in the energy storage market is the focus on grid-scale projects. Large-scale energy storage systems are being deployed to balance supply and demand on the grid, providing stability and reducing the need for conventional fossil fuel backup generation. This trend aligns with the growing integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.

Behind-the-meter (BTM) energy storage solutions are also gaining momentum. These systems are installed on-site, often in conjunction with solar panels, to provide backup power during grid outages and optimize energy consumption patterns. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is further boosting the energy storage market, as EV batteries can be repurposed for stationary storage once they reach the end of their useful life in vehicles.

Renewable energy

Market outlook

Renewable energy, encompassing solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass sources, is at the forefront of the global push towards a low-carbon future. As governments and industries commit to reducing carbon emissions, the renewable energy market is poised for substantial growth. The global renewable energy market is projected to expand at a CAGR 9 % during the forecast period.

Market trends

The integration of different renewable energy sources into hybrid systems is gaining traction. Hybrid projects, combining solar with wind or other sources, offer a more consistent and reliable energy output by leveraging complementary generation patterns. These projects maximize resource utilization and enhance grid stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the solar energy, energy storage, and renewable energy markets are experiencing remarkable growth as the world shifts towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Technological innovations, decreasing costs, supportive policies, and changing consumer preferences are driving these markets forward. Integrated solar solutions, energy storage technologies, and hybrid renewable energy projects are shaping the future of energy production and consumption. As the momentum towards a greener future builds, these markets are poised to play a pivotal role in the global energy transition.

 

This article was written by Ashish Kolte from TechBullion and was legally licensed through the DiveMarketplace by Industry Dive. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@industrydive.com.

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