GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Solar Energy Industry Statistics

The solar energy industry is experiencing significant growth, with the capacity of global solar installations expected to double within the next few years.

Highlights: Solar Energy Industry Statistics

  • As of 2019, the global solar energy industry’s revenue was approximately 57 billion U.S. dollars.
  • In 2020, the U.S. solar industry grew 43%, installing a record 19.2 gigawatts of capacity.
  • By the end of 2020, 97.2 GW of solar power was installed in the U.S., sufficient to power 17.7 million homes.
  • In 2020, solar energy development generated $25 billion in private investment in the American economy.
  • In 2019, photovoltaic energy accounted for 3.3% of global electricity generation.
  • California, the leading U.S. state in solar energy production, produced 31.363 GWh of solar power in 2019.
  • As of 2020, the U.S. solar industry employed about 231,000 people.
  • The cost of solar PV panels has fallen over 80% since 2010.
  • By 2050, solar power is anticipated to become the world's largest source of electricity, accounting for 40% of all power generation.
  • In the first half of 2021, solar installations were up 46% year over year in the U.S.
  • The global solar PV capacity reached about 633.7 GW as of the end of 2019.
  • China had the highest cumulative solar PV capacity worldwide, with 205 GW installed as of 2019.
  • The size of the U.S. solar market hit $18.7 billion in 2020.
  • As of 2020, utility-scale solar power accounted for 63% of all new solar PV capacity additions in the U.S.
  • As of the end of 2019, the global capacity of off-grid solar energy was 6.1 gigawatts.
  • The price of solar energy in the U.S. fell 90% in the past decade.
  • The global solar energy market size was valued at $52.5 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach $223.3 billion by 2026.
  • In 2020, the U.S. provincial sector installed 14.2 GW of solar photovoltaics accounting for 73% of all capacity installed.
  • The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that the number of Americans working in solar energy overtook those in coal, gas and oil energy generation in 2016.

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The Latest Solar Energy Industry Statistics Explained

As of 2019, the global solar energy industry’s revenue was approximately 57 billion U.S. dollars.

The statistic indicates that in 2019, the global solar energy industry generated a total revenue of around 57 billion U.S. dollars. This figure reflects the collective income from various activities within the solar energy sector, including manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of solar panels and related infrastructure. The revenue generated by the industry highlights the growing significance and economic impact of solar energy as a renewable energy source on a global scale. It demonstrates the increasing adoption and investment in solar energy technology to address energy needs sustainably and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.

In 2020, the U.S. solar industry grew 43%, installing a record 19.2 gigawatts of capacity.

The statistic that the U.S. solar industry grew by 43% in 2020 and installed a record 19.2 gigawatts of capacity indicates a significant expansion and adoption of solar energy within the country. This growth rate reflects a substantial increase in the deployment of solar power systems, signifying a shift towards renewable energy sources. The record capacity installations suggest a strong momentum towards sustainability and a reduction in reliance on fossil fuels. The data highlights the increasing importance of solar energy as a viable and impactful solution for addressing climate change and meeting energy demands in a more eco-friendly manner.

By the end of 2020, 97.2 GW of solar power was installed in the U.S., sufficient to power 17.7 million homes.

The statistic states that by the end of 2020, a total of 97.2 gigawatts (GW) of solar power capacity had been installed in the United States. This amount of solar power is considered sufficient to provide electricity to approximately 17.7 million homes. This statistic highlights the significant growth and adoption of solar energy as a renewable power source in the U.S., contributing to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions. The increasing installation of solar power capacity aligns with efforts to transition towards sustainable energy sources and combat climate change, while also providing an indication of the expanding role of solar energy in the country’s energy mix.

In 2020, solar energy development generated $25 billion in private investment in the American economy.

The statistic ‘In 2020, solar energy development generated $25 billion in private investment in the American economy’ quantifies the substantial financial contribution made by solar energy projects in the United States over the course of the year. The $25 billion private investment signifies the significant interest and economic confidence in solar energy development within the country, highlighting a growing trend towards sustainable energy solutions. This statistic reflects the increasing shift towards renewable energy sources and the potential economic opportunities associated with the expansion of the solar energy industry. Furthermore, the sizable investment underscores the importance of renewable energy initiatives in driving economic growth and promoting sustainable development in the United States.

In 2019, photovoltaic energy accounted for 3.3% of global electricity generation.

In 2019, photovoltaic (PV) energy, also known as solar energy generated through solar panels, contributed to 3.3% of the total electricity generated worldwide. This statistic indicates the growing significance of renewable energy sources in the global energy mix, with solar power playing a notable role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change. The increasing adoption of PV technology reflects a broader trend towards sustainable energy solutions, driven by factors such as declining costs, government incentives, and environmental concerns. As the world continues to transition towards a more sustainable energy future, the prominence of photovoltaic energy is expected to further increase in the coming years.

California, the leading U.S. state in solar energy production, produced 31.363 GWh of solar power in 2019.

The statistic indicates that California is the top state in the United States in terms of solar energy production, generating a total of 31.363 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of solar power in the year 2019. This highlights California’s significant contribution to renewable energy production and its commitment to sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The amount of solar power produced reflects the state’s investment in solar infrastructure and favorable conditions for solar energy generation, such as abundant sunlight. This statistic not only underscores California’s leadership in renewable energy but also signals the potential for further growth and adoption of solar power technologies in the state and beyond.

As of 2020, the U.S. solar industry employed about 231,000 people.

The statistic indicates that in the year 2020, the U.S. solar industry provided employment opportunities for approximately 231,000 individuals. This figure reflects the significant growth of the solar sector in the United States, driven by increased demand for clean and renewable energy sources. The employment data suggests that the solar industry has become a major contributor to the U.S. labor market, supporting a substantial workforce that is involved in various aspects of solar energy production, installation, maintenance, and research & development. This statistic emphasizes the importance of the solar industry as a key player in both the environmental sustainability efforts and the economic development of the country, highlighting its significance in creating job opportunities and contributing to the growth of the renewable energy sector.

The cost of solar PV panels has fallen over 80% since 2010.

The statement “The cost of solar PV panels has fallen over 80% since 2010” indicates a significant decrease in the price of solar photovoltaic panels over the past decade. This statistic highlights the rapidly evolving and increasingly competitive solar energy market, driven by technological advancements, economies of scale, and supportive policies. The substantial cost reduction has made solar energy more affordable and accessible for consumers and businesses, contributing to the widespread adoption of solar PV systems as a renewable energy source. The declining cost of solar panels has played a crucial role in the global shift towards cleaner energy sources and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change.

By 2050, solar power is anticipated to become the world’s largest source of electricity, accounting for 40% of all power generation.

The statistic predicts that by the year 2050, solar power is expected to surpass all other sources of electricity generation to become the largest source globally, contributing to 40% of total power generation. This projection suggests a significant shift towards renewable energy sources, marking a substantial increase in the adoption of solar power technology across the world. This trend highlights the growing emphasis on sustainability, reduced carbon emissions, and the potential environmental benefits of transitioning to renewable energy sources. The anticipated growth of solar power signifies a transformative change in the energy landscape, emphasizing the potential for solar energy to play a crucial role in meeting global energy demands while addressing climate change challenges.

In the first half of 2021, solar installations were up 46% year over year in the U.S.

The statistic “In the first half of 2021, solar installations were up 46% year over year in the U.S.” indicates that the number of new solar installations in the U.S. during the first half of 2021 increased significantly compared to the same period in the previous year. Specifically, there was a 46% growth rate in the number of solar installations. This suggests a notable positive trend in the adoption of solar energy technology across the country. Factors such as increasing awareness of the benefits of solar energy, declining costs of solar panels, and supportive government policies may have contributed to this substantial growth in solar installations. This statistic reflects a promising trajectory towards a more sustainable and renewable energy future in the U.S.

The global solar PV capacity reached about 633.7 GW as of the end of 2019.

The statistic that the global solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity reached about 633.7 gigawatts (GW) as of the end of 2019 indicates the total installed capacity of solar PV systems worldwide. This number represents the combined power output that all the solar panels installed across various countries can generate at any given time. The increasing adoption of solar PV technology signifies a significant transition towards renewable energy sources to mitigate climate change and achieve sustainability goals. The capacity of 633.7 GW highlights the substantial growth in solar PV installations around the world, reflecting the increasing support for clean energy alternatives.

China had the highest cumulative solar PV capacity worldwide, with 205 GW installed as of 2019.

The statistic indicates that China had the largest total installed capacity of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems globally up to the year 2019, standing at 205 gigawatts. This figure underscores China’s significant investment and adoption of solar energy technologies aimed at achieving energy security, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy mix. China’s leadership in solar PV capacity installation highlights its commitment to renewable energy development and signifies its prominent role in driving the global growth of the solar energy industry. The scale of China’s solar PV capacity showcases its potential to lead the way in clean energy production and contribute to mitigating climate change on a global scale.

The size of the U.S. solar market hit $18.7 billion in 2020.

The statistic “The size of the U.S. solar market hit $18.7 billion in 2020” indicates the total value of the solar market in the United States for the year 2020. This figure reflects the total revenue generated by activities related to solar energy, including the installation of solar panels, manufacturing of solar equipment, and other associated services. The $18.7 billion value suggests a significant market presence and growth within the renewable energy sector, highlighting the increasing interest and investment in solar energy as a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional forms of energy generation.

As of 2020, utility-scale solar power accounted for 63% of all new solar PV capacity additions in the U.S.

The statistic indicates that in the United States, utility-scale solar power installations made up 63% of all new solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity added in 2020. This suggests a significant shift towards larger-scale solar projects connected to the grid, as opposed to smaller, distributed installations. The data highlights the growing importance and adoption of utility-scale solar power in meeting the country’s renewable energy goals and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future. This trend underscores the potential for utility-scale solar power to play a key role in increasing the overall capacity of solar energy generation in the U.S. and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels for electricity generation.

As of the end of 2019, the global capacity of off-grid solar energy was 6.1 gigawatts.

The statistic “As of the end of 2019, the global capacity of off-grid solar energy was 6.1 gigawatts” signifies the total amount of solar energy that can be generated off-grid, meaning it is not connected to the main electricity grid. This capacity represents the ability of solar energy systems to generate 6.1 gigawatts of power independently. Off-grid solar energy systems are crucial for providing electricity to areas that are not reached by the traditional grid infrastructure, allowing for increased access to clean and sustainable energy sources. This statistic indicates the global progress in adopting off-grid solar solutions to meet energy needs and promote energy access in remote or underserved regions.

The price of solar energy in the U.S. fell 90% in the past decade.

The statistic that the price of solar energy in the U.S. has fallen by 90% in the past decade reveals a significant and impressive trend in the renewable energy sector. This substantial decrease in price indicates that solar energy technologies have become more efficient and cost-effective over the years, likely due to advancements in technology, increased competition, and supportive government policies. As a result, solar energy has become a more attractive and viable option for households, businesses, and industries looking to reduce their carbon footprint and transition to cleaner sources of energy. This trend demonstrates the potential for continued growth and adoption of solar energy in the U.S. and around the world as we strive towards a more sustainable future.

The global solar energy market size was valued at $52.5 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach $223.3 billion by 2026.

The statistic provided indicates the significant growth and potential of the global solar energy market. In 2018, the market was valued at $52.5 billion, demonstrating strong existing demand for solar energy solutions. The projection that the market is expected to reach $223.3 billion by 2026 represents a substantial increase in value over a relatively short period, signaling a rapid expansion in the adoption and implementation of solar energy technologies worldwide. This growth trajectory suggests a shift towards more sustainable and renewable energy sources as well as a growing recognition of the economic and environmental benefits of solar energy.

In 2020, the U.S. provincial sector installed 14.2 GW of solar photovoltaics accounting for 73% of all capacity installed.

In 2020, the U.S. provincial sector installed 14.2 GW of solar photovoltaics, indicating a substantial increase in renewable energy efforts within the country. This amount accounted for 73% of all capacity installed during that year, showcasing a significant shift towards solar energy as a preferred source of power generation. The statistic highlights the growing importance of solar PV technology in the U.S. energy landscape as the provincial sector continues to lead the way in adopting clean and sustainable energy solutions to meet the nation’s power needs.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that the number of Americans working in solar energy overtook those in coal, gas and oil energy generation in 2016.

The statistic provided by the U.S. Department of Energy indicates that in 2016, the number of Americans employed in the solar energy sector exceeded the combined total of those working in coal, gas, and oil energy production. This shift reflects a significant change in the U.S. energy industry, signifying a trend towards renewable energy sources and away from traditional fossil fuel-based energy production. The growth of the solar energy sector can be attributed to advancements in technology, increased awareness of environmental sustainability, and government incentives promoting clean energy initiatives. The statistic underscores the increasing importance and prevalence of renewable energy sources in the American workforce and suggests a transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy landscape.

Conclusion

Solar energy industry statistics demonstrate the tremendous growth and potential of this renewable energy source. With increasing investments, decreasing costs, and advancements in technology, solar power is positioned to play a key role in our transition to a more sustainable future.

References

0. – https://www.www.eia.gov

1. – https://www.www.iea.org

2. – https://www.www.thesolarfoundation.org

3. – https://www.www.alliedmarketresearch.com

4. – https://www.www.cnbc.com

5. – https://www.www.powermag.com

6. – https://www.www.statista.com

7. – https://www.www.cleanenergywire.org

8. – https://www.www.ibisworld.com

9. – https://www.www.energy.gov

10. – https://www.www.lazard.com

11. – https://www.www.energysage.com

12. – https://www.ourworldindata.org

13. – https://www.www.seia.org

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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