Global solar energy installations are expected to reach 593 gigawatts in 2023, marking a 29% increase compared to the previous year. This growth is driven by contributions from countries like China, the United States, India, Germany, and Brazil. Türkiye is among the fastest-growing countries in solar energy installations.

This year, global solar installations are anticipated to surpass sector expectations and set a new record, with a 29% increase reaching 593 gigawatts.

According to a report by Ember, a London-based international energy think tank, global solar capacity has continued to grow following an 87% increase in 2023.

Considering the 292 gigawatts of solar capacity added between January and July, it is projected that an additional 593 gigawatts of solar capacity will be installed worldwide by the end of the year if this pace continues. This figure represents a 29% increase compared to 2023.

This surge in capacity is expected to exceed forecasts and break records in the sector.

China, the United States, India, Germany, and Brazil are estimated to account for 75% of this year’s new capacity.

Between January and July, China saw a 28% increase in solar energy capacity additions compared to the same period last year. The country is expected to build 334 gigawatts of capacity this year, accounting for 56% of the total global additions.

In India, 23 gigawatts of solar energy capacity is anticipated to come online this year.

Solar Energy Capacity in Türkiye Doubles Last Year’s Growth

Among the countries monitored in Ember's monthly reports, Türkiye ranks as one of the fastest-growing nations in solar energy installations compared to the previous year.

In Portugal, solar energy installations during the January-July period increased by approximately 2.3 times compared to the same period last year, marking the highest growth. Türkiye and India follow, with increases of 2.1 and 1.8 times, respectively, over the same period. Globally, the average increase in solar energy installations during this period is calculated at 1.3 times.

The analysis also indicates that this year’s increase in solar energy capacity is expected to surpass the total coal plant capacity (540 gigawatts) added worldwide since 2010.

Euan Graham, Ember’s Electricity Data Analyst, commented on the report, stating that solar energy has once again exceeded expectations. He emphasized, “Solar is also emerging as the cheapest source of electricity globally. Strong growth in major markets, combined with rapid momentum in other parts of the world, is driving an unprecedented increase in solar energy capacity. Countries should plan for a future centered around solar energy to fully leverage the affordable energy this technology provides.”