Does Argentina have a potential for solar energy utilization?

Conclusions Our work found a large gap between Argentina’s potential for solar energy utilization and the current solar energy deployment, despite advantages such as a high solar and land resources.

When did solar thermal energy become a key energy source in Argentina?

Solar thermal energy in Argentina was already considered a potential key energy source in 1975 , when a national R&D program for the development of solar energy and other renewables was launched, leading to numerous research programs (see next section) and the elaboration of norms and certification criteria for ST collectors .

Is Argentina a good country for solar energy?

There is a measure of agreement that Argentina’s solar resource is ideal for photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal (ST) development, both for large- and small-scale (distributed) installations. The yearly Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Index published by Ernst and Young places Argentina in the 18th position for PV .

Is there a gap between solar and solar energy deployment in Argentina?

Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. There is a large gap between the vast solar resources and the magnitude of solar energy deployment in Argentina. In the case of photovoltaics, the country only reached the 1000 GWh electricity generated yearly landmark in 2020.

Can Argentina abridge the solar gap?

Finally, a discussion on the main ingredients required to abridge Argentina’s solar gap indicates that stronger, consistent long-term strategies are required in Argentina in order to take advantage of the present window of opportunity, and to play a considerable role in the global energy transition.

Are solar thermal devices legal in Argentina?

Because, in Argentina, there is no accredited laboratory for solar thermal devices, reports from international labs are accepted as a proof of compliance. In 2019, the new government implemented import and currency exchange restrictions, and implemented subsidies to natural gas one more time.