How has solar energy generating capacity changed since 2009?

Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy generating capacity has grown by 41 per cent per year since 2009 1. Energy system projections that mitigate climate change and aid universal energy access show a nearly ten-fold increase in PV solar energy generating capacity by 2040 2, 3.

What is total solar power installed capacity?

Total solar (on- and off-grid) electricity installed capacity, measured in gigawatts. This includes solar photovoltaic and concentrated solar power. IRENA (2024) – processed by Our World in Data

Are solar energy uptake rates underestimated?

Historical projections of energy generation have consistently underestimated uptake rates of solar energy 16, 17. For example, only a year after the publication of the 2020 World Energy Outlook (WEO), the IEA’s “Stated policies scenario” has been revised strongly in favour of solar energy.

What is a solar photovoltaic system?

Solar photovoltaic is a renewable energy technology that utilizes sunlight in order to generate electricity. A photovoltaic system is comprised of one or multiple solar panels, made up of solar photovoltaic cells, and a solar inverter.

What is the contribution of solar energy to global electricity production?

While the contribution of solar energy to global electricity production remains generally low at 3.6%, it has firmly established itself among other renewable energy technologies, comprising nearly 31% of the total installed renewable energy capacity in 2022 (IRENA, 2023).

How many people use solar PV in 2050?

18.7 million in 2050 (Figure 23). Another reason for optimism is the growing application of decentralised off-grid solar PV, especially in countries and regions of the world where energy access is still limited.