Global solar power capacity has surpassed the 3-terawatt (TW) threshold, according to the latest report by Brussels-based solar industry association SolarPower Europe.
According to the Global Solar Market Outlook report, a record 664 gigawatts (GW) of new solar capacity was added worldwide last year, marking the highest annual installation level on record.
The figure represents a 12% increase from the previous year.
"As global solar capacity surpassed the 3 TW milestone, solar energy's contribution to worldwide electricity demand also recorded significant growth," the report said.
The share of global electricity consumption met by solar power tripled compared with five years earlier, reaching 9%, it added.
Solar power remained the main driver of new renewable energy investments, accounting for around 80% of all renewable capacity additions last year.
Solar also outpaced the combined new capacity additions from fossil fuels and nuclear energy, further strengthening its leading role in the global energy transition.
The report said solar energy has evolved from an alternative source of power into a fundamental pillar of the world's energy system.
By Gulsen Cagatay
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr
