The annual performance of global solar irradiance for 2023 remained relatively stable and above-average, or even increased in some regions, but solar power performed well overall through the hottest year on record, according to Solargis. Nonetheless, it cautions that changing global weather patterns may alter the outlook for 2024.
In 2023, the solar data and software firm believes the stability in solar irradiance supported solar power's growth and competitiveness against other energy sources, across the globe.
In Australia, solar irradiance exceeded the long-term average by 2% and in Southeast Asia by 10% due to favorable weather conditions and reduced cloud cover.
Even the US benefited from stable solar performance as some regions benefited from the El Niño effect that contributed to more sunshine and less precipitation. Central America enjoyed stronger-than-average solar irradiance, according to Solargis' analysis, while Africa maintained its steady and consistent solar resource.
Europe too was a beneficiary of the higher-than-average solar irradiance, especially in the Southern Nordic regions due to reduced cloudiness and rainfall. It exceeded long-term average by between 1% and 7%.
"Across 2023, solar power stood as a shining beacon of hope amidst an unprecedented climate crisis and soaring global temperatures," said Solargis CEO and Founder Marcel Suri.
Moving forward, the solar power market needs to brace itself to face extreme weather conditions that can impact solar project performance at the regional level.
The US and Australia, for instance, are already facing more frequent and severe hailstorms negatively impacting the insurability of projects.
India continues to suffer from a long-term dip in solar performance due to a prolonged and intense monsoon season. Central India was below its long-term average by between 1% and 5%, says Solargis, whereas Southeast India was up to 5% above the long-term average.
Solar resource availability reduced in some parts of South America including South Brazil due to La Niña's impact.
Suri added, "There is an increased need for stakeholders to closely monitor and analyze solar resource trends. This is crucial for optimizing projects and mitigating the ongoing risks in the face of changing climate dynamics."
Solargis recommends stakeholders to closely monitor resource variability patterns and navigate potential barriers and opportunities for their assets.