Solar Powers Ahead in 2024: Over 400 GW Added!

DATAportl estimates that over 400 GW of solar capacity was added globally in 2024, representing a 22% increase compared to 2023. This growth spans 10 major regions that we cover, with China leading the way, followed closely by Western Europe. By 2030, total global solar capacity is projected to approach 6 TW.

Less than 20% of the total added capacity in 2024 came from residential solar installations, the share of residential projects varies significantly between regions. Over the past five years, non-residential solar installations have seen rapid growth, driven by major investments in large-scale solar farms designed to boost renewable electricity generation for national grids.

This data is drawn from our latest study, “Solar Power: Residential and Non-Residential Solar Capacity, by Major Region.”

Globally, more than 12 million residential solar installations were carried out in 2024, with the average system capacity now reaching 5.5 kW. The typical residential installation includes more than 12 solar panels, and over the past five years, nearly 700 million solar panels have been installed in residential systems alone.