How much photovoltaic (PV) capacity must be installed to help the U.S. meet a net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2050? A detailed analysis conducted by California-based Clean Power Research and The University at Albany provides a starting point to gauge where and how much of the solar technology needs to be applied to meet at least 50% of the energy demands in every state.

The analysis published in Solar Energy applied a top-down based on available land use data, as well as a bottom-up method that accounts for only land areas amenable to PV deployment without a change of function. Both assessments indicate substantial room for growth beyond 50% energy demand — including a 100% option in all states. The Washington, D.C. region proves the only exception, but this can be overcome by its proximity to Virginia and Maryland, which each have ample room for growth.

An oversized renewable mix of 50% PV, 45% wind energy and 5% dispatchable generation can economically supply national energy demands year-round and maintain a stable electrical grid. This load would occupy just 0.25% of the total continental U.S. land surface, suggesting that more than enough deployable space exists in every state to meet local demand.

The researchers also devised an interactive map allowing users to modify PV numbers on a state-specific basis.