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Chapter V Strategies for Climate Change Mitigation

(I) Advances and Applications of Solar Energy Technology
Solar energy technology constitutes a vital component of the clean energy sector, pro-
viding crucial support for global energy transition through photovoltaic power generation
and solar thermal utilization. In recent years, significant progress has been made in solar
technology regarding efficiency improvements, cost reductions, and large-scale application.
【1】 Advances in Photovoltaic Power Generation Technology
Photovoltaic power generation technology, one of the primary forms of solar ener-
gy utilization, delivers clean energy to power systems by directly converting sunlight into
electricity. Recent years have seen remarkable advancements in photovoltaic technology in
terms of efficiency enhancement and cost reduction. For example, monocrystalline silicon
andpolycrystalline silicon photovoltaicThe conversion efficiency of monocrystalline silicon
and polycrystalline silicon photovoltaic cells has reached over 23% and 20% respectively,
while thin-film photovoltaic cells have achieved a conversion efficiency of over 15%. Addi-
tionally, the cost of photovoltaic power generation has significantly decreased over the past
decade, dropping from USD 0.3 per kilowatt-hour in 2010 to approximately USD 0.05 per
kilowatt-hour in 2020, making it one of the most competitive clean energy sources.
2. Application of Solar Thermal Utilization Technology
Solar thermal utilization technology is another critical form of solar energy application,
which converts sunlight into thermal energy for heating, cooling, and industrial processes.
For instance, solar water heaters have been widely adopted globally, providing clean hot
water supply for households and businesses. Furthermore, solar thermal power technologies
(e.g., parabolic trough and tower-type solar thermal power systems) have also seen remark-
able progress. These systems convert solar energy into thermal energy, which then drives
steam turbines to generate electricity, supplying clean energy to power grids.
3. Application Prospects of Solar Technology
The application prospects of solar energy technology are vast, and it plays a signifi-
cant role in the global energy transition. First, the application of solar technology in power
systems will significantly reduce fossil fuel usage and lower greenhouse gas emissions. For
example, by 2050, solar power is projected to account for over 20% of global electricity
supply, becoming one of the largest sources of electricity worldwide. Second, the application
of solar technology in heating and cooling sectors will also substantially reduce fossil fuel
consumption and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, solar water heaters and
solar-powered air conditioning systems have been widely adopted globally, providing clean
heating and cooling services for households and businesses.
（II）Advancements and Applications of Wind Energy Technology
Wind energy technology is another critical component in the clean energy sector, sup-
porting the global energy transition through wind power generation. In recent years, signifi-
cant advancements have been achieved in improving efficiency, reducing costs, and scaling
up applications of wind energy technology.

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