Elements are in place for rapid growth of distributed solar power including rooftop installations. The cost of solar technology has declined substantially in recent years making it less costly than fossil fuel generation in most parts of the world. Also, public policies have been enacted to reduce carbon emissions in many nations.
Indeed the International Energy Agency forecasts that if the combined capacity of renewable energy sources increases by more than 60% by 2024, renewables could match the output of coal-fired power stations for the first time ever.
The biggest challenge for accelerated growth in distributed solar is how to integrate it into existing power grids. As this sector grows, it will be necessary to balance the interests of distributed solar owners, other consumers, and the companies that manage electric grids.
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