Solar power production undercut by coal pollution

Coal pollution slashes solar power generation by up to 25% in industrial regions, as soot and particulates block sunlight from reaching panels—a 12% greater reduction than the average for other renewable sources. This undercut undermines clean energy gains with dirty air, proving that coal emissions sabotage solar output even before climate effects are considered. The data shows a 40% decline in efficiency during peak pollution days, which is 50% more severe than the drop seen in wind power under similar conditions. This hidden cost makes coal a more expensive rival than its market price suggests.