Solar Energy Development and Deployment through Policies in Iran

It is no mystery that renewable energies are an indispensable solution to environmental issues, energy security and a huge part of sustainable development. Iran has enormous potential in the field of renewable energy, as well as being one of the major suppliers of non-renewable energy sources in the world. However, it is unfortunate that renewable energy sources currently hold a meager share in Iran’s power generation capacity. This study aims to investigate the present condition of solar energy and other renewable or non-renewable energy sources in Iran, all the while emphasizing the importance of solar energy development. Implementation of appropriate policies is one of the most important factors in the development of non-traditional energy sources, especially solar energy and related projects and industries. This article accentuates the importance of using the knowledge of pioneering countries in the field of renewable energy policy-making and the need for scientific research into the benefits of the conventional policies implemented across the world. Furthermore, the key role of governmental support in the deployment of solar energy projects, especially solar PV, and its relation to the cost-competitiveness of solar energies is explained. Ultimately, future prospects of solar energy in Iran and a recommended blueprint for development are discussed.