The world hit 3 terawatts of solar power capacity in early 2026, marking a milestone achieved faster than anyone anticipated. This rapid growth reflects shifting energy dynamics and expanding access to solar technology worldwide.
- Solar installations reached 3 terawatts in early 2026.
- China drives over half of new global solar capacity.
- Battery storage growth crucial to maximize solar use.
What happened
The global solar capacity milestone of 3 terawatts was reached in early 2026, far surpassing previous growth expectations. The first terawatt took nearly 68 years to build, the second only two years, and the third just 19 months. In 2025 alone, 664 gigawatts of new solar capacity were added worldwide, a 12 percent increase from the year before.
This surge in solar power is driven largely by China, which accounts for more than half of all recent global solar installations. Additionally, rising energy costs in countries like Pakistan, Nigeria, the Philippines, and Cuba have pushed households to adopt rooftop solar, making this clean energy source viable even beyond traditional wealthy markets.
Why it feels good
Solar and wind power together generated 22 percent of global electricity in April 2026, overtaking natural gas for the first time. This shift highlights how renewable energy is becoming a dominant part of the world's power supply, contributing to climate goals and reduced fossil fuel dependence.
The spread of solar technology to countries with urgent energy challenges is especially encouraging. Affordable solar panels and increased manufacturing have lowered costs drastically, making clean energy accessible even in places that previously could not justify the investments, thus improving energy security and sustainability.
What to enjoy or watch next
A key focus moving forward is addressing infrastructure gaps, particularly the need for more battery storage capacity. Without sufficient storage, much of the solar-generated power cannot be fully utilized, leading to curtailment during peak production times. Countries like China are shifting policy to prioritize not just capacity, but efficient use of renewables.
Industry forecasts suggest global solar capacity could exceed 9 terawatts by 2036, tripling current levels. Given the recent acceleration in growth, this forecast might be conservative. Watching how energy storage technologies and transmission infrastructure evolve will be critical to unlocking solar’s full potential in the years ahead.