Europe's Heatwave: A Double-Edged Sword for Solar Energy and Health

Extreme heat and drought in Europe have led to record-setting sunshine, increasing the continent's solar energy potential. The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that solar radiation across Europe reached its highest level observed since the satellite era began four decades ago. The report also highlighted the impact of weather and climate on renewable energy potential, with wind energy generation potential declining for much of the continent in 2022. The trend towards sunnier weather has consequences, but it could drive more renewable energy generation in countries not traditionally considered awash in solar resources.