Solar Future Studies Part IV: Solar And Its Role By The End-Use Sector

This online engineering PDH interactive presentation provides a summary on the final part of the Solar Futures Study, which includes the discussion of solar and its role by the end-use sector.

Besides generating and delivering power, solar can play the most immediate role in decarbonizing end uses that are already electrified or can be electrified in the near term. These end uses are often categorized into three sectors: residential and commercial buildings, transportation, and industry.

The first part of this presentation analyzes the role of solar in decarbonizing each of these end uses. For each end use, it discusses the current energy use profiles (electricity and fuels) and prospects for further electrification. It also discusses the role of solar as a zero-carbon resource and enabling technology and explore synergies between the end uses and solar deployment.  The presentation continues to discuss the specific equity implications of solar-based decarbonization of the end uses with a discussion of barriers to and opportunities for maximizing the roles of solar in decarbonizing the end uses.

The second part of this presentation introduces the major economic, social, and environmental challenges and opportunities beyond the targeted reductions in carbon-emitting fossil fuel use, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and air pollution. It examines the impacts and options associated with the full solar project life cycle, including technology manufacturing, operation, and End Of Life treatment. It also describes circular economy (CE) strategies—such as recycling, repair, and reuse—as approaches to addressing historical environmental justice and equity concerns. The presentation concludes by identifying key R&D needs related to improving the impacts from solar manufacturing, operation, and EOL management therefore resulting in job creation.

This 3 PDH online interactive presentation is applicable to governments, businesses, and green energy engineers who are interested in gaining a better understanding of the economic, social, and environmental benefits of clean, zero-carbon electricity.