Fast read
The solar industry continues to thrive amid global challenges, driven by increased government incentives, technological advancements, and competitiveness. Key trends shaping the industry include:
- BIPV Technology: Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are evolving, offering versatile solutions for high-rise structures. Solar skins, thin panels applicable to various surfaces, are gaining traction for their cost-effectiveness and seamless integration into architecture.
- Supply Chain Challenges: Global supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and silicon shortages, affect solar panel manufacturing and transportation, causing delays and equipment shortages. Anticipating these issues and communicating with customers can mitigate their impact.
- Floating Solar: Advancements in photovoltaics technology enable solar farms to be deployed on water bodies, reducing land use and enhancing energy production efficiency, particularly in areas with limited land availability.
- Increased Demand for Installation and Maintenance: Growing concerns about climate change drive demand for solar installations and maintenance services. Labour shortages pose challenges for companies, necessitating strategic hiring and training measures to meet customer demands effectively.
- Solar Storage: Falling costs and increased capacity of solar batteries, coupled with government incentives, drive demand for solar storage solutions. Solar installers can benefit from this trend by offering storage solutions to homeowners and businesses. This can assist in the shift towards clean energy.
What are the latest trends in solar energy?
Despite tough times like global pandemics, the solar energy industry has stayed strong. But the question is what is the future of solar energy trends and where will the industry go?
Governments are giving more incentives to use solar energy, making it more popular. Plus, solar technology keeps getting better, making solar panels work even better. And because more companies are making solar stuff, they’re working harder to make it top-notch.
Looking at 2024, things are looking good for solar energy. Governments are still supporting it, and technology is still improving. But there are some challenges too, things like supply chain problems or changes in the rules could make it tough.
This article is all about what to expect in the solar world in 2024. We’ll discuss the good stuff and the challenges, so you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
BIPV technology
These panels, also called building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), are made for tall buildings that have lots of space going up but not much space on the roof. Unlike regular solar panels that sit on roofs, these ones are built into the building itself. They’re great for buildings with large, energy-efficient windows because they can function as both windows and solar panels. This means they let sunlight in while also making electricity.
A cool new thing called solar skins is making this technology even better. Solar skins are super thin and bendy solar panels that can be stuck onto almost anything. They’re cheap and look nice, so they’re a good option for adding solar power to buildings without using large, cumbersome solar panels on the roof.
As scientists and engineers keep making improvements, we’ll probably see more and more buildings using these kinds of panels. They’re good for the environment and can save money on electricity bills.
Supply issues
Global supply chains are under severe pressure because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many times, equipment and solar panels are made in China. Many factories were forced out of business by the 2020 lockdown. However, many supply chains have not completely recovered from this disruption.
Additionally, silicon shortages have caused problems in the manufacturing of solar panels. Transport has also been an issue because of the congestion of some ports. This causes additional delays.
Understanding the impact of supply chain issues can be challenging, but predicting their outcomes can be immensely beneficial. Ask suppliers about what to expect. Let customers know that equipment shortages could cause delays. If customers know what to expect, they will be more understanding.
Floating solar energy trend
Australia is blessed with vast areas of land where large-scale solar farms can be built. Others are less fortunate, so technology that uses stations on the water rather than the land is being developed. Although this idea isn’t new, its technologies are rapidly improving and becoming more mainstream worldwide.
Floatovoltaics lower the cost of energy as there are no land or real estate prices. The cooling effect of water also increases power production. These farms will soon be floating in the water at your location.
Increased demand for installation and maintenance
Concerns about climate change and reducing solar PV costs drive the clean energy transition. Solar energy installation services are becoming more critical as solar capacity increases and sustainability concerns increase. Many solar panel systems can be maintained and repaired now than ever before. While increased demand for solar energy companies can be good, it can also cause logistical problems for companies trying to grow their business.
Solar companies have been hit hard by labour shortages in many areas of the country.
Therefore, planning for your hiring needs and allowing for more extended hiring periods where possible is essential. Also, properly train new employees, particularly regarding safety protocols. These measures are crucial to maintaining high customer service levels as you grow your business.
Hire technicians who have completed solar training programs or have previous solar energy sales or installation experience.
Solar energy storage trend
The cost of advanced solar batteries is falling, while their capacity has increased over the past few years. Solar batteries are also included in many country’s government incentives. These incentives significantly lower solar storage costs for homeowners and businesses.
These factors are all convergent, which is why there has been a steady increase in solar battery storage sales. Even customers of existing solar power systems might be able to add storage capacity. Capitalising on the growing demand for solar storage solutions as a solar installer is wise.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, the solar industry continues to thrive despite challenges, driven by innovation and increasing demand for renewable energy solutions. Looking ahead to 2024, there are several trends influencing the solar power industry.
In 2024, the solar power industry will be influenced by various trends. One trend is the increasing use of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). Another solar energy trend is efforts to address supply chain challenges.
Additionally, there will be a focus on developing floating solar technology. There will also be a growing demand for solar panel installation and maintenance services. Lastly, there will be a rising interest in solar storage options.
The solar industry is facing both opportunities and challenges because of these solar energy trends. To succeed in this changing market, stakeholders must focus on proactive planning, innovation, and adaptation.
The solar industry can help move towards cleaner energy by staying updated on technology and policy support. This will contribute to a more sustainable future. By utilising advancements in technology and policy support, the solar industry can drive the transition to cleaner energy.
