Comparative Analysis of YOLO Models for Real-Time Solar Panel Defect Detection

In 2024, the solar energy industry experienced unprecedented growth. Global renewable energy capacity increased by 15.1% to reach 4,448 GW, with solar energy contributing a record 452 GW in new capacity—more than three-quarters of all new renewable additions. China, the United States, India, Germany, and Brazil together accounted for approximately 75% of these global solar additions. Investment in solar PV worldwide exceeded USD 480 billion in 2023, setting a new industry record [1]. The United States saw its largest ever annual increase in solar capacity, installing nearly 50 GW in 2024—a 21% rise from the previous year [2]. Solar power accounted for about 66% of all new electricity generation capacity added to the U.S. grid. California led the nation with over 48 GW of installed solar, followed by Texas with 32 GW [3]. Texas solidified its position as a national leader in solar energy in 2024. The state added around 9.7 GW of new solar capacity, the highest of any state that year. Notably, in March 2024, solar generation in Texas surpassed coal for the first time, highlighting the state’s rapid energy transition. The economic impact of solar in Texas is significant, with billions invested and substantial revenue generated for landowners and local governments. Solar energy’s rapid expansion in 2024 set new records globally and in the United States, with Texas at the forefront of this growth. The state’s leadership in new capacity additions and its milestone of surpassing coal generation underscore the transformative impact of solar power on the energy landscape [4-9].