A path to sustainable development goals: A case study on the thirteen largest photovoltaic power plants

Abstract

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serve as a comprehensive framework guiding humanity's response to various pressing challenges. Using fossil fuels presents a significant environmental challenge due to the release of greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy satisfies the expanding energy demands and mitigates climate change. Moreover, solar energy has a significant potential on a global scale for energy production. Solar PV technology, from utility-scale megaprojects to modest residential installations, is becoming more affordable and investment-worthy worldwide while providing customers with higher efficiency per watt. Due to the absence of a comparative study of the largest solar PV power plants, studies are subject to set inputs on the impact of these power plants and contributions in relation to the SDGs. The present study has two main objectives, i.e., a comparison of the largest solar PV power plants globally and an analysis of the contribution of solar PV power plants to the SDGs. The study also explores the alignment of solar PV power plants with SDG 7, emphasizing affordable and clean energy access. Solar energy is a powerful driver for achieving SDG 13, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and diminishing reliance on fossil fuels. Beyond environmental impacts, solar PV power plants contribute to economic growth, innovation, and job creation, aligning with SDG 8. This research would provide valuable insights into the global social, economic, and environmental dimensions of solar PV power plants.