Global Solar Installation Statistics H1 2025

Global solar installations saw a record-shattering growth in the first half of 2025, increasing an astounding 64% year-on-year and reaching 380 GW of new capacity deployed worldwide. This surge marks solar PV as the fastest-growing energy generation technology on the planet, eclipsing all other sources in pace and impact. For context, the comparable period in 2024 saw 232 GW installed, meaning the solar sector added more capacity in just six months than any previous full year in the sector’s history.

China Leads Global Solar Deployment in 2025

China’s contribution was the driving force behind this surge. In H1 2025, China installed an incredible 256 GW—accounting for around 67% of total global new solar capacity. This figure is more than double the combined total from all other markets, showing developers rushing to meet project deadlines ahead of new regulatory changes. Outside China, India was the second-largest market with 24 GW of new installations (up 49% from H1 2024), followed by the US at 21 GW, which saw a more modest 4% rise.

Why is Solar Growing So Quickly in 2025?

Global solar’s meteoric rise is attributed to several converging trends:

• Technology costs are dropping: The falling price of modules and balance-of-system components enables mass deployment, making solar the most affordable source of new electricity.
• Policy support and climate targets: Aggressive government incentives, net zero commitments, and mandates for solar expansion have turbocharged installations, especially in the UK, EU, and Asia.
• Corporate demand and energy independence: Tech giants and manufacturers are locking in long-term solar contracts to meet clean energy goals. With volatile fossil fuel prices, solar offers nations and corporations resilient, local supply chains.
• Energy security for developing markets: Africa saw Chinese solar panel imports rise by 60% year-over-year, with solar increasingly viewed as the fastest way to deliver energy access at scale.

How Does the UK Fit Into the World Solar Surge?

The UK is experiencing its own solar boom during 2025, contributing to global momentum. Nationally, more than 1.5 million homes now sport solar PV, with total solar capacity surpassing 19 GW, up from 18 GW at the start of the year. Factors including zero-VAT policies, the Smart Export Guarantee, and volatile energy prices have put solar at the centre of UK climate action.

What Do the Latest Statistics and Market Forecasts Say?

Solar’s dramatic growth continues into the future. SolarPower Europe projects a 10% increase in installations to 655 GW installed by the end of 2025, with annual growth rates sustaining double digits through 2029. The global solar PV market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 7.8% from 2025-2033. In the UK, capacity reached 19 GW as of July 2025, with government statistics supporting record deployment rates.

How Does Solar’s Growth Compare to Other Energy Sources?

In 2024, global solar output increased by 28% (adding +469 TWh) compared to 2023, outpacing all other forms of energy. Solar continues to lead global electricity generation for new installs, with wind, hydro, and fossil technologies lagging behind.

The rate of new installations puts solar on track to become the backbone of new electricity generation worldwide, accelerating the energy transition and supporting decarbonisation goals in every major region.

Are Recent Growth Rates Sustainable?

Analysts forecast solar growth will remain robust, though some moderation is likely as developers contend with regulatory reforms (notably in China) and potential trade policy shifts (in the US and EU). While H2 2025 may not match the breakneck pace of H1, annual installations are expected to beat 2024’s total, and long-term solar targets remain upwardly revised across key markets. Global efforts in battery storage and grid upgrades are helping ensure that the expanding base of solar generation is efficiently integrated.

What Does This Mean for UK Solar Customers?

For UK residential and business customers, 2025 is an ideal time to consider solar PV and battery solutions. With falling costs, robust technical support, and progressive government policies, local installations are more accessible and profitable than ever.

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Wondering how record global solar growth can benefit a property in the UK? Atlantic Renewables' team of expert solar engineers are ready to help customers tap into a world-leading renewable future. Whether exploring residential PV, battery storage, or commercial solar, contact us at 0161 207 4044 to optimise your energy savings and join the solar revolution today!