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As the world continues its energy transition journey by embracing solar and wind power, the International Energy Agency has said that governments must act to ensure that they are well integrated into power systems - or risk losing out on significant benefits. 

Between 2018 and 2023, solar photovoltaic and wind capacity have doubled worldwide, along with their share in total electricity generation witnessing significant growth. 

The Vitality of Integration

IEA said that these variable renewable energy (VRE) sources need to be well integrated into power systems to reap the best out of it. 

According to the report, delaying the implementation of measures to support integration could result in electricity generation from solar PV and wind being 15 percent lower in 2030 and shave five percentage points off their share of the global electricity mix. 

"In recent years, the world has seen a remarkable increase in solar and wind capacity as countries have looked to bolster their energy security and reduce emissions. But they won't reap the full benefits without stronger efforts to support the integration of these technologies into power systems," said Fatih Birol, director general of IEA. 

He added: "This important new report lays out the challenges ahead, as well as how to tackle them. As global experience grows, so does our understanding of how to keep clean energy transitions moving forward securely."

Proactive Measures Needed

The energy think tank noted that developing storage and adopting new power grid technologies, is playing an important role in managing variations in solar PV and wind output throughout the day and across seasons.

According to the report, most technological solutions to address emerging hurdles - namely, a higher need for stability and flexibility - are either mature or nearing maturity, and their successful rollout often lies in appropriate policy and regulatory action rather than new technological breakthroughs.

"Incorporating higher levels of variable renewables into power systems requires rethinking the ways in which they have traditionally been planned and operated. This will necessitate proactive measures globally as the uptake of renewables continues apace," added IEA.