Chinese-led energy study provides solution for addressing future electricity demands

A new study led by a Chinese research team suggests that by 2050, the world’s energy demands could be met—and even exceeded threefold—through an interconnected global solar-wind energy system. Such a system would not only generate more power than needed but also do so at a lower cost compared to fragmented, regional energy networks.

The researchers, hailing from China, Denmark, and the United States, explored how to optimize solar and wind deployment globally by linking regions rich in renewable energy resources with those experiencing high demand. Their findings, published in the journal Nature Communications, argue that a worldwide renewable energy grid could improve energy efficiency, lower the economic burdens of decarbonization, and increase resilience to both geopolitical conflict and extreme climate events.

“Theoretically, the potential of solar and wind resources on Earth vastly surpasses human demand,” the authors wrote, emphasizing the feasibility of a globally interconnected energy market.

The study comes as the global energy landscape rapidly shifts toward renewables. However, one persistent challenge is the intermittency of solar and wind power, which naturally fluctuate throughout the day and across seasons. This can lead to mismatches between when energy is produced and when it is most needed.

Current systems try to address this issue using energy storage solutions and flexible sources like hydropower. But these approaches require expensive infrastructure and remain vulnerable to disruptions from natural disasters or extreme weather events. In contrast, a global energy grid could smooth out these fluctuations. Since peak solar and wind generation occurs at different times in different regions, an international network could effectively balance supply and demand around the clock.

While the technical potential is clear, the researchers caution that building such a system would require navigating complex geopolitical issues. Conflicts such as the war in Ukraine highlight the risks of relying on international cooperation for energy supply. Additionally, constructing the necessary infrastructure—across borders and possibly through unstable regions—poses both logistical and political challenges.

Nevertheless, the benefits are significant. A globally linked renewable energy system could reduce reliance on fossil fuels, support climate goals, and provide a stable and secure energy supply. If realized, it would mark a historic shift toward a unified, sustainable energy future.

By Nazrin Sadigova