Solar Power Growth 2024: Capacity Increase Worldwide
In 2024, the world set a new record by installing 597.5 gigawatts (GW) of solar power, bringing the total global capacity to 2,500 GW, or 2.5 terawatts (TW). This remarkable growth was predominantly driven by China, which added 300 GW of new capacity. With this addition, China became the first country to surpass 1,000 GW, or 1 TW, of cumulative solar capacity (source).
This rapid expansion of solar energy is part of the world’s concerted efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change. Solar power now stands as a major component of the global energy mix, offering a clean and sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources.
China’s Role in Solar Power Growth 2024
China’s leadership in solar power is not surprising. The country has been investing heavily in renewable energy for years, and its efforts are paying off. In 2024 alone, China’s solar capacity grew by 300 GW, nearly half of the global total for the year. By the end of the year, China’s cumulative solar capacity reached a staggering 1,070 GW.
A report from the China Photovoltaic Industry Association (CPIA) revealed that by the end of 2024, China had installed a cumulative total of 1,070 GW of solar capacity. This represents over 40% of the global cumulative capacity, which stood at 2,500 GW. The United States and India followed China in solar installations, each adding 67 GW and 55 GW, respectively (source).
In 2024, the world produced 3,300 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity from solar power, up from 2,800 TWh in 2023. China led in solar electricity generation, producing 1,300 TWh, or 39% of the global total. Europe followed with 500 TWh, while the United States generated 450 TWh.
China’s dominance in the solar sector is a result of its strong policy support, technological advancements, and massive investments in solar infrastructure. The country has been able to achieve economies of scale, which has helped reduce the cost of solar power globally (source).
Global Outlook for Solar Power Growth 2024
Despite the significant progress made in 2024, the global solar industry still faces challenges. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has set ambitious targets for solar power in its Net Zero by 2050 roadmap. According to the IEA, the world needs to install 1,200 GW of solar capacity annually from 2025 to 2035 to meet its climate goals.
Solar power is expected to play a crucial role in the global transition to clean energy. According to the IEA, solar power is projected to account for 20% of the world’s total electricity generation by 2030. This share is expected to increase to 33% by 2050.
In 2025, the IEA expects global solar capacity to grow by 680 GW, reaching a total of 3,200 GW. This growth is expected to continue, with the world adding 760 GW in 2026, 850 GW in 2027, 950 GW in 2028, and 1,050 GW in 2029. By 2030, the global solar capacity is projected to reach 6,500 GW (source).
The IEA’s roadmap highlights the importance of solar power in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Solar power is expected to play a crucial role in the global transition to clean energy. According to the IEA, solar power is projected to account for 20% of the world’s total electricity generation by 2030. This share is expected to increase to 33% by 2050.
The world’s record-breaking solar installations in 2024 are a testament to the growing importance of renewable energy. With continued investment and innovation, solar power is set to play a central role in the global energy transition in the coming decades.