Solar power has rapidly become one of the most popular and affordable renewable energy sources in the UK and across the world. As the technology evolves, the facts behind solar energy only get more impressive. Here are ten remarkable truths that highlight just how powerful the sun really is.

1. One hour of sunlight could power the world for a year

Every single hour, the Earth receives more energy from the sun than the entire global population uses in a full year – and it only takes around eight minutes for sunlight to travel 91 million miles to reach us.

2. Covering just 1% of the Sahara Desert with solar panels could power the planet

The Sahara receives some of the strongest and most reliable sunlight on Earth. If only a tiny fraction – around 1.2% – were fitted with solar panels, it could generate enough electricity to meet global energy demands.

3. Solar is the fastest growing power source in the world

In recent years, solar energy has overtaken wind, hydro, coal and gas in terms of new power capacity added. It is now considered the cheapest form of electricity production in history.

4. Solar panels are powering missions in space

Space agencies like NASA have relied on solar technology for decades. The International Space Station and Mars rovers use solar panels as their primary source of energy, including spacecraft equipped with expandable panel arrays.

5. The world’s largest solar farm is in India

Located in Tamil Nadu, this massive solar installation covers roughly 2,500 acres and uses more than 2.5 million panels, enough to power 750,000 homes.

6. China installs enough solar panels every hour to cover a football pitch

China leads the world in solar adoption, installing solar at a pace unmatched by any other renewable technology.

7. Solar panels don’t need direct sunlight to generate power

Solar PV systems work from daylight, not heat, so they still produce on cloudy, overcast or cold days. The only time solar panels stop generating is at night.

8. Solar helps cool the planet – in more ways than one

By cutting the need for fossil fuels, solar energy reduces carbon emissions and slows climate heating. Plus, solar panels absorb sunlight that would otherwise heat your roof, helping your home stay cooler during hot summers.

9. The future of solar power could be based in space

The European Space Agency is exploring space based solar power through its Solaris project, with a major decision expected late 2025. The goal: generate energy in space and wirelessly transmit it back to Earth with minimal loss.

10. Solar powered air travel is already being tested

In 2016, Solar Impulse II became the first aircraft powered solely by solar energy to fly around the world. The 23 day journey demonstrated the potential of aviation fuelled entirely by renewable energy.

Ready to Bring the Power of the Sun to Your Home?

Solar energy is no longer futuristic – it’s practical, affordable and one of the smartest investment decisions a homeowner can make today.

Whether you’re in Ipswich, Haverhill, Bury St Edmonds or Eye, Solar Suffolk can help you unlock lower bills, greater energy independence and long term savings with a tailored solar solution.

Solar on your roof. Power in your hands.