Challenges, Policies, and Opportunities in Large Scale Solar Energy Adoption for Sustainable Development

Purpose: Large-scale solar energy is increasingly recognized as a critical pathway for achieving Sustainable Development Goals by meeting rising energy demand while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening resilient energy infrastructure. This study examines the challenges, policy frameworks, and opportunities associated with deploying large-scale solar photovoltaic systems in commercial buildings, shopping centers, and urban developments, with a focus on their role in supporting sustainable development. Methodology: The study adopts a qualitative review and comparative policy analysis approach, drawing on peer-reviewed literature, international energy reports, and policy documents. It synthesizes technical, economic, and regulatory perspectives on large-scale solar PV deployment across multiple regions, with particular attention to commercial and urban applications. Findings: The analysis identifies key technical and infrastructural challenges, including intermittency, grid integration constraints, land availability, and system reliability, alongside economic and institutional barriers affecting project viability. The study further finds that supportive policy instruments, declining technology costs, innovative financing models, and integration of solar PV into the built environment significantly enhance adoption potential in large commercial and urban developments. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This study contributes by integrating technical, policy, and urban development perspectives into a unified framework for large-scale solar adoption. It provides transferable policy insights for governments, practical guidance for developers and investors, and strategic recommendations for embedding solar PV into sustainable real estate and urban planning practices.