Topic: Lower-carbon and Greener Technology: Evaluation of Photovoltaic Power Generation

Solar power plants are becoming increasingly important in decarbonizing the energy sector and are receiving much attention. With the developments in photovoltaic (PV) cell technologies, PV plant installation approaches, PV power plant types, and application-specific PV power plant designs, solar power is progressively establishing itself as a viable and influential source of power generation. This transformation has materialized prominently in recent times. As a result, governments around the world have introduced favorable policies, such as feed-in tariffs and tax incentives, to promote PV systems adoption in the national energy mix. This strategic action has led to a significant increase in off-grid, grid-connected and hybrid PV installations at all scales (spanning from smaller to larger capacities). By doing so, PV power has emerged as a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuels in many countries, effectively minimizing carbon emissions. This dual advantage not only champions eco-friendly energy production but also propels societies towards a low-carbon economy. However, we must consider the impact of the recent advancements within the PV sector to truly gauge the extent of this transition.

With this in mind, we initiated this special topic to explore the potential and challenges of PV power generation in reducing carbon emissions. Our aim is to evaluate its contribution to emission reduction and its capacity to drive sustainable development by analyzing technological advancements, market trends, and policy landscapes. This initiative is designed to inform the formulation of targeted policies and innovative strategies, thereby expediting the transition to cleaner energy sources. Consequently, this Special Issue will encompass a range of pivotal topics in the PV sector, including but not limited to the following:
1. Photovoltaic Power Generation Technology and Applications
2. The Impact and Potential of Photovoltaic Power Generation on Carbon Emission Reduction
3. Economically Viable Photovoltaic Power Generation Systems
4. Resilient Photovoltaic Power Generation Systems
5. Life Cycle Assessment and Carbon Footprint Analysis of Photovoltaic Power Generation Systems
6. Photovoltaic Power Generation and Energy Transition
7. Technological Innovation and Research and Development in Photovoltaic Power Generation
8. Carbon Pricing and the Photovoltaic Power Generation Market
9. Photovoltaic Power Generation Policies and the Future Energy Landscape
10. Application of Photovoltaic Power Generation in Urban, Island, Rural, and Remote Areas