Are solar PV projects reducing the cost of electricity in 2022?

Between 2022 and 2023, utility-scale solar PV projects showed the most significant decrease (by 12%). For newly commissioned onshore wind projects, the global weighted average LCOE fell by 3% year-on-year; whilst for offshore wind, the cost of electricity of new projects decreased by 7% compared to 2022.

What happened to solar power in 2022?

In 2022, the global weighted average levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) from newly commissioned utility-scale solar photovoltaics (PV), onshore wind, concentrating solar power (CSP), bioenergy and geothermal energy all fell, despite rising materials and equipment costs.

What is the least cost option for solar power?

Nevertheless, in terms of the LCOE of the median plant, onshore wind and utility scale solar PV are, assuming emission costs of USD 30/tCO 2, the least cost options. Natural gas CCGTs are followed by offshore wind, nuclear new build and, finally, coal.

Will solar PV & wind be more expensive in 2024?

Consequently, the average LCOE for utility-scale PV and wind could be 10-15% higher in 2024 than it was in 2020. Although their costs continue to exceed pre Covid-19 levels, solar PV and onshore wind remain the cheapest option for new electricity generation in most countries.

Why are solar power plants so expensive?

The price of steel, the main construction material for both utility-scale PV and onshore wind plants, increased 75% in China, 160% in the United States and 270% in Europe, while copper and aluminium became 60-80% more expensive. The highest growth was in freight rates, which rose almost sixfold.

Where are solar PV cost data taken?

Data are taken from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme - MCS Installation Database. For enquiries concerning this table email [email protected]. Small scale solar PV cost data for 2023-2024 published. Small scale solar PV cost data for 2022-2023 published. Small scale solar PV cost data for 2021-2022 published.