Global solar capacity reaches 2.96 TW amid steady photovoltaic growth

Global photovoltaic capacity reached 2.96 TW by the end of 2025, following a year in which approximately 690 GW of new solar power was installed. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) PVPS, this represents a 15% increase in annual installations compared to 2024, though the growth rate was more moderate than in previous years.

China remains the dominant force in the market, accounting for roughly 60% of global installations with 415 GW added in 2025. Other significant contributors include India (54 GW), the United States (43 GW), Germany (18 GW), and Pakistan (14 GW). Decentralized photovoltaics also saw growth, reaching 282 GW of new capacity.

In the European Union, solar capacity grew by 68 GW in 2025, a 5% increase. Data from SolarPower Europe highlights that the EU added at least 33.8 GW of new solar capacity in the first half of 2026, a 1.9% increase over the same period in 2025. There is increasing pressure to utilize building rooftops for solar installations, shifting focus toward residential blocks, commercial premises, and industrial warehouses.