Solar energy—A look into power generation, challenges, and a solar‐powered future

This review paper examines solar energy as a sustainable power generation alternative, highlighting its immense potential to meet humanity's energy needs through both photovoltaic (PV) cells and concentrated solar power (CSP) technology. The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive insight into the methodologies of electricity generation from solar energy and its direct applications, particularly in agriculture, water treatment, and domestic purposes. Through an extensive review of current literature, various advancements in PV technology, such as the achievement of efficiency rates reaching approximately 34.1% in multi-junction cells, are discussed alongside the promising future of CSP owing to its high capacity, efficiency, and energy storage capabilities. Additionally, potential innovations including satellite power stations transmitting energy from space to Earth are explored. However, the review also addresses significant challenges facing the solar energy sector, such as intermittency, high capital costs, and material scarcity for PV cells. To overcome these barriers, the development of efficient energy storage systems and the creation of cost-effective, high-performing solar cells are recommended. Ultimately, the paper posits that with ongoing technological advancements, solar energy holds a bright future as a renewable energy source.