Most of the global solar PV (photovoltaic) capacity consists of utility-scale solar installations, commonly known as “solar farms.” This sector is poised for significant growth being driven by cost reductions in material, technology advancements in the industry and the need for clean electrical generation to address climate change.
Utility-scale solar has been generating reliable, clean electricity for decades. Solar power plants can be developed in a way that balances environmental protection with energy demands and climate goals. It has proven to be a profitable and a passive income generating asset.
A utility-scale solar power plant can utilize several solar technologies – primary photovoltaics (PV) or concentrating solar power (CSP). What distinguishes utility-scale solar from distributed generation is both project size and the fact that the electricity is sold to wholesale utility buyers, not end-use consumers. Utility-scale solar plants provide the benefit of fixed-priced electricity during peak demand periods when electricity from fossil fuels is the most expensive.
