Large scale solar electric power plants are being developed and planned worldwide as an alternative to fossil fuel, or nuclear power generation. These large scale power plants (solar farms) are typically greater than 100 kW in power output and grow in capacity to well over 1 MW.

Solar power helps lower operating costs and hedge against rising electricity prices, while reducing overall environmental impact. Widely available government subsidies and continually decreasing PV module prices is driving the growth of commercial solar electric installations.

BIPV replaces traditional building materials such as roofs, window overhangs, and walls with solar panels. BIPV systems can provide savings in materials and electricity costs, and add architectural beauty to the building.

For those without access to a utility grid. small scale PV power systems (200 W - 2 kW), fill important needs without installing traditional power infrastructure. Local, isolated solar systems can generate sufficient power to satisfy basic needs such as domestic lighting, solar lanterns and water pumping. As Solar costs  decrease , Solar can better the lives of large numbers people in remote areas.