Even though the most efficient solar cell can convert 46% of sunlight to electricity, most commercial systems are 15-20% efficient. Despite these limitations, it is possible to power the entire planet with solar technology today. The infrastructure would need to be built, and space would be required. The estimates range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of square miles. This seems a lot, but the Sahara Desert is more than 3 million square miles.
Solar cells are becoming more efficient and cheaper, which means they can compete with electricity from the grid. Innovations like floating solar farms may also change the landscape. Even though these are just a few examples, the reality is that more than a billion people do not have access to an electric grid. This is especially true in many developing countries, which are often sunny. Solar energy is much more affordable and safer than other alternatives like kerosene in such places. However, it is still possible to generate adequate solar energy in Seattle or Finland.
