People use solar energy in a variety of ways, primarily through photovoltaic (PV) systems that convert sunlight directly into electricity, but also through other methods like solar thermal systems for heating water and air.
Solar energy is booming—but behind the scenes, solar companies are struggling to find and retain the people they need to get the job done. In 2025, the solar installer labor shortage has become one of the industry's most urgent challenges.
This isn't sci-fi - it's today's reality for 2 million rural households globally adopting solar energy. Rural regions, often last in line for grid connections, are leapfrogging into the energy future through decentralized solar solutions.
China has a goal to install 180 gigawatts of battery energy storage systems by the end of 2027, with a direct project investment of $35. 8 gigawatts, 40% of the global total.
From solar-absorbing granite facades that help regulate indoor temperatures to photovoltaic-embedded limestone pathways that generate electricity, these innovations are transforming passive stone surfaces into active energy contributors.