The exponential growth of solar power will change the world
An energy-rich future is within reach
It is 70 years since AT&T’s Bell Labs unveiled a new technology for turning sunlight into power. The phone company hoped it could replace the batteries that run equipment in out-of-the-way places. It also realised that powering devices with light alone showed how science could make the future seem wonderful; hence a press event at which sunshine kept a toy Ferris wheel spinning round and round.
This article appeared in the Leaders section of the print edition under the headline “The solar age”
Leaders June 22nd 2024
- The exponential growth of solar power will change the world
- AI will transform the character of warfare
- Emmanuel Macron’s project of reform is at risk
- How to tax billionaires—and how not to
- Javier Milei’s next move could make his presidency—or break it
- India should liberate its cities and create more states
From the June 22nd 2024 edition
Discover stories from this section and more in the list of contents
Explore the editionMore from Leaders
Germany’s failure to lead the EU is becoming a problem
A weak chancellor and coalition rows are to blame
How to ensure Africa is not left behind by the AI revolution
Weak digital infrastructure is holding the continent back
A global gold rush is changing sport
Fans may be cooling on the Olympics, but elsewhere technology is transforming how sport is watched
Can Kamala Harris win?
Joe Biden’s vice-president has an extraordinary opportunity. But she also has a mountain to climb
MAGA Republicans are wrong to seek a cheaper dollar
It is hard to cast America as a victim of the global financial system
Joe Biden has given Democrats a second chance to win the White House
If they are not to squander it, they must have a proper contest