Review of global sustainable solar energy policies: Significance and impact

Abstract

As efforts worldwide to mitigate climate change strengthen, solar energy has arisen as a critical component of national energy strategies aimed at reducing CO₂ releases. In 2023, worldwide CO₂ releases from energy rose by 1.1 % to a record 37.4 gigatons, largely due to increased coal use and rising energy demand. This paper examines the role of solar energy in curbing emissions by analyzing electricity trends and policies from top solar-producing nations. This review employs a comprehensive methodology, encompassing a literature review (2015–2023), analysis of country-specific solar energy policies, empirical data and case studies, and an evaluation of challenges with future recommendations, to assess global solar energy development. Quantitative data shows that solar energy can significantly reduce emissions, with every megawatt hour of solar electricity reducing approximately 0.5 tons of CO₂. Case studies from countries like Germany and California demonstrate how robust solar policies contribute to emissions reductions, while examples from India and China highlight the challenges of continued reliance on fossil fuels. The paper emphasizes the importance of widespread strategy frameworks that not only encourage solar adoption but also discusses broader energy system dependencies. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of global solar energy policies and their effectiveness in mitigating climate change. By comparing successful and challenged implementations, it highlights critical factors for policy success and offers actionable recommendations for future solar energy strategies. The research underscores the potential of large-scale solar energy deployment to significantly reduce global CO2 emissions by 2050, thus contributing to a more sustainable and less carbon-intensive future.