• Solar dominates renewables, reaching 47% of global capacity in 2025
• Falling costs drive growth, solar now cheaper than fossil fuels
• Expansion led by Asia, while Africa’s growth remains limited

Solar energy is now the leading driver of renewable energy worldwide. Data released on Tuesday by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) show that solar accounts for most new installations and nearly half of global renewable capacity.

In 2025, solar capacity reached 2,392 GW, representing 47% of total renewable capacity of 5,149 GW. The sector added 511 GW during the year, accounting for 75% of total additions (692 GW). This puts solar well ahead of wind and other technologies, reinforcing its central role in the expansion of renewable electricity.

 Source: IRENA, Renewable capacity highlights, 2025

This expansion is largely due to a sharp decline in equipment and generation costs. The average cost of solar photovoltaic electricity fell from $0.417 per kWh in 2010 to $0.043 per kWh in 2024, according to IRENA.

In 2024, solar power was on average 41% cheaper than fossil fuel alternatives. Its modular nature also supports rapid deployment, with installations ranging from small-scale systems to large utility projects, helping expand access to electricity.

Uneven solar growth

Solar expansion remains concentrated in a few regions. Asia, led by China and India, recorded the largest capacity gains, followed by the United States and Brazil.

Asia has more than doubled its installed solar capacity since 2022. The region added 317.1 GW in 2024 and 371.2 GW in 2025. China alone accounted for 315.1 GW of new capacity, while India added 37 GW. South Korea contributed a further 3.7 GW, IRENA said.

Africa, by contrast, is expanding more slowly. The continent’s solar capacity reached 22,188 MW in 2025, up from 18,375 MW in 2024, but remains marginal globally.

While falling costs have removed a major barrier to deployment, securing sufficient investment remains a challenge for countries undergoing energy transition. This applies to both large-scale projects and decentralized solutions such as mini-grids and solar kits.

Abdoullah Diop