# Global solar energy market trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-solar-energy-market-trends
> Updated: 2026-09-07T13:27:09.000Z. Sources: 13. Developments: 2.

The global solar energy sector is seeing growth in both managed capacity and installation rates. By the end of 2025, the global solar photovoltaic operations and maintenance (O&M) market reached 348 GW of managed capacity, characterized by rapid consolidation where the 15 largest providers control 57% of the market.

In the European Union, solar installations reached 33.8 GW in the first half of 2026, representing a 1.9% increase over the same period in 2025. This growth, driven by energy security concerns and fossil-fuel prices, has led to an increased full-year forecast of 68.1 GW for 2026. While markets like Poland saw significant growth, others such as Germany and Spain experienced declines. In Italy, utility-scale projects saw a substantial surge despite a drop in residential installations.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-07: EU solar capacity reaches 33.8 GW in H1 2026

EU solar capacity grew to 33.8 GW in H1 2026, prompting SolarPower Europe to raise its annual forecast to 68.1 GW as utility-scale projects drive resilience despite residential slowdowns.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-solar-capacity-reaches-338-gw-in-h1-2026

### 2026-09-03: Global solar PV O&M market reaches 348 GW

The global solar PV O&M market reached 348 GW in 2025, with the 15 largest providers controlling 57% of capacity as industry consolidation accelerates.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/global-solar-pv-om-market-reaches-348-gw

---
Cite as: Global solar energy market trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-solar-energy-market-trends