Vulnerability of solar energy infrastructure and output to climate change

Patt A, Pfenninger S, Lilliestam J (2013)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2013

Journal

Climatic Change Springer Verlag (Germany)

Book Volume: 121

Pages Range: 93-102

Journal Issue: 1

DOI: 10.1007/s10584-013-0887-0

Abstract

This paper reviews the potential vulnerability of solar energy systems to future extreme event risks as a consequence of climate change. We describe the three main technologies likely to be used to harness sunlight-thermal heating, photovoltaic (PV), and concentrating solar power (CSP)-and identify critical climate vulnerabilities for each one. We then compare these vulnerabilities with assessments of future changes in mean conditions and extreme event risk levels. We do not identify any vulnerabilities severe enough to halt development of any of the technologies mentioned, although we do find a potential value in exploring options for making PV cells more heat-resilient and for improving the design of cooling systems for CSP. © 2013 Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht.

Authors with CRIS profile

Johan Lilliestam

Additional Organisation(s)

Lehrstuhl für Sustainability Transition Policy

Involved external institutions

International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) AT Austria (AT)

How to cite

APA:

Patt, A., Pfenninger, S., & Lilliestam, J. (2013). Vulnerability of solar energy infrastructure and output to climate change. Climatic Change, 121(1), 93-102. https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10584-013-0887-0

MLA:

Patt, Anthony, Stefan Pfenninger, and Johan Lilliestam. "Vulnerability of solar energy infrastructure and output to climate change." Climatic Change 121.1 (2013): 93-102.

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