This paper explores the evolution of net greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation of the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry from 2009-2060 using a spatialized-dynamic life-cycle analysis. Results show a net GHG mitigation of 1.29 Gt CO2-equivalent from 2009-2019. The highest net GHG mitigation among future scenarios to meet 40% global power demand in 2060 is 204.7 Gt, achieved by concentrating manufacturing in Europe and North America and prioritizing PV installations in carbon-intensive nations. This is 97.5 Gt more than the worst-case scenario. The findings highlight the need for international coordination to maximize GHG mitigation from solar PV deployment.

Shi Chen, Xi Lu, Chris P. Nielsen, Michael B. McElroy, Gang He, Shaohui Zhang, Kebin He, Xiu Yang, Fang Zhang, Jiming Hao