Solar power generation, 2025

All data and visualizations on Our World in Data rely on data sourced from one or several original data providers. Preparing this original data involves several processing steps.

How Does Solar Work?

Solar technologies convert sunlight into electrical energy either through photovoltaic (PV) panels or through mirrors that concentrate solar radiation. This energy can be used to generate electricity or be stored in

Solar PV Energy Factsheet

Solar energy can be harnessed two primary ways: photovoltaics (PVs) are semiconductors that generate electricity directly from sunlight, while solar thermal technologies use sunlight to heat water for domestic

How To Calculate Solar Panel Needs: Complete 2025 Guide

Learn how to calculate solar panel needs with our step-by-step guide. Includes formulas, examples, and location-specific factors for accurate sizing.

Solar power in China

Solar power in China China''s solar potential Wind and solar surpassed a quarter of China''s electricity generation for the first time in April 2025.

How many solar panels do I need for my home? 2026 guide

You can calculate how many solar panels you need by dividing your yearly electricity usage by your area''s production ratio and then dividing that number by the power output of your solar panels.

Solar Energy

There are two main types of solar energy technologies—photovoltaics (PV) and concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP). On this page you''ll find resources to learn what solar energy is; how you, your

Solar explained

People have used the sun''s rays (solar radiation) for thousands of years for warmth and to dry meat, fruit, and grains. Over time, people developed technologies to collect solar energy for heat and to

Solar power in China

OverviewGovernment incentivesHistorySolar resourcesSolar photovoltaicsConcentrated solar powerSolar water heatingEffects on the global solar power industryThe China Development Bank provided $20 billion of financing to domestic solar manufacturers in 2010. In 2011, new feed-in tariffs were promised to potential solar power developers to help drive investments and growth in the solar power market. The government of Qinghai province offered solar projects that were operational before 30 September, 1.15 yuan ($0.18) for each kWh they produced in May 2011. The National Development and Reform Commission offered same-priced subsidies to potential solar powe

Solar power generation drives electricity generation growth over the

We expect the combined share of generation from solar power and wind power to rise from about 18% in 2025 to about 21% in 2027. In our STEO forecast, utility-scale solar is the fastest-growing source of

Solar Calculator

Calculate how much power you need with these solar calculators to estimate the size and the cost of the solar panel array needed for your home energy usage.