Solar and wind energy face integration challenges amidst high expansion

Renewables reached 30% of global electricity in 2023, but grid flexibility issues persist.

The surge in solar and wind energy propelled global renewable electricity from 19% in 2000 to over 30% in 2023, with solar and wind increasing from 0.2% to 13.4%.

According to Dave Jones, Global Insights Programme Director at Ember, solar and wind energy have been on a significant growth trajectory. "Solar and wind they've been on a huge growth spurt, really powering that rise in renewables," Jones stated. This surge is attributed to the significant decrease in costs and the widespread adoption of these technologies across various countries.

However, the rapid growth of solar and wind energy presents new challenges, particularly in grid integration and flexibility. "Within certain countries and certain parts of grids, there's now so much solar generation coming on through lunchtime, the grids are now starting to have problems absorbing that and integrating it within the grid," said Jones. 

One of the significant technological advancements addressing this challenge is the rise in battery storage. Jones emphasised, "Batteries and solar work so well together, where it can take that lunchtime sun power and extend it after the sun's gone, down into the evening, where that electricity is needed." This innovation is crucial for maintaining the momentum of solar energy deployment by mitigating the midday surplus and providing a stable supply in the evening.

Grid infrastructure remains a critical concern, although there have been positive developments in this area. Policymakers have become more attentive to the slow pace of grid improvements, which Jones noted was causing alarm just 12 months ago. 

"Policymakers are kind of like generally in the right place, a mindset to think about that and really for us, the next stage of that, policymakers' attention needs to be on flexibility," Jones explained. 

Looking ahead, the growth of solar and wind energy shows no signs of slowing down. Jones described the rise of solar energy as "unstoppable," noting a 70% increase in installations last year. He projected a further 20% rise this year, potentially reaching 40%, which he described as "really quite mind-blowing."

Meanwhile, China continues to dominate onshore wind installations, accounting for two-thirds of the global total last year. This dominance partly stems from China's significant investment in this sector, while other countries have not yet matched their efforts.