Why solar energy?
According to forecasts from Swedish authorities, our electricity consumption is expected to double from the current level of around 140 TWh. Solar power is an affordable energy source; it is easily accessible and can be expanded much more quickly compared to other energy sources.
How does solar energy work?
Solar energy is generated through a process in which solar cells convert sunlight into electricity. Solar cells are made from semiconductor materials. When sunlight strikes the solar cell, the energy from the light is absorbed. This energy causes the electrons in the semiconductor material to move, generating electric current.
It is the light that is important when producing solar energy, not just the sun rays. Solar cells can produce electricity even from indirect sunlight. This means they absorb light and generate electricity even on a cloudy day or when sunlight is reflected, for example, by a snow-covered ground. For this reason, bifacial solar cells are used in our solar parks.
Industry association
Nätverket för solparker is an industry association of 19 companies developing large-scale solar parks. We want to help raise awareness of solar parks among decision-makers, the public and among other stakeholders in Sweden.
On their website you will find a lot of reports and relevant information about solar parks.
Solar energy in Sweden
Sweden needs to electrify our society and shift to renewable energy in order to reduce carbon emissions. Solar power is one of the key solutions for the green transition.
Although Sweden isn’t typically known for its sunny weather and warm climate, it’s a common misconception that we lack the conditions needed for large-scale solar energy production. In reality, that’s not the case!
Climate and energy transition
The need to reduce carbon emissions calls for a transition to renewable energy, and solar power stands out as one of the most accessible options. As our society becomes more electrified, the demand for electricity is expected to rise, especially during the summer months when solar power is most productive. Furthermore, solar power is one of few energy sources that is possible to develop very quickly, with the construction time for a solar park typically ranging from only 12 to 18 months
Sweden has favorable conditions
According to the Global Solar Atlas, solar cells can generate roughly the same amount of electricity in southern Sweden as in Denmark and the Netherlands, and slightly less than in Germany. Even the coastlines of northern Sweden has quite good solar radiation.
Generally, cold temperatures are not negative to solar panels; they can be more efficient when temperatures are low, just like other electrical components.
Energy security
Solar parks come in many different sizes and can be located close to electricity consumption. This means decentralized and local electricity production, which enhances energy security.
Solar power complements other forms of energy
Solar power complements all other forms of energy very well. During the summer months, when solar parks are most efficient, wind speeds are often lower, which means wind farms doesn’t produce as much and Nuclear power is often shut down for maintenance and service during the summer season.
By increasing the share of solar power in the energy mix, we can also save more in hydropower reservoirs when they are at their lowest in spring and early summer. Hydropower also gives Sweden particularly good conditions for expanding renewable electricity production, such as solar and wind power, as it provides excellent flexibility for both short- and long-term regulation.
Big differences between Sweden and Denmark when it comes to solar power
BeGreen was founded in Denmark, a country that is far ahead of us in the development of solar parks. BeGreen’s Grid Manager, Niclas Bengtsson, shares more insights!
