Top-10 Solar Energy Producing Countries in the World [Current Affairs]

As nations strive to cut fossil fuel use and address climate change, solar energy is gaining prominence. This renewable source offers a cleaner alternative and is being embraced worldwide. In this article, we highlight the top 10 solar energy-producing countries that are leading the charge in harnessing the sun’s power. These nations are at the forefront of the global shift toward sustainable and renewable energy solutions.

Global Energy Production

Global solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity reached 1,177 gigawatts, reflecting significant growth from less than 2.6 gigawatts in 2003. In 2022 alone, approximately 239 gigawatts of new PV capacity were added. This surge underscores the rapid expansion and increasing adoption of solar energy worldwide, highlighting its crucial role in the global transition to sustainable energy.

Largest Solar Energy Producing Country in the World

China is the largest solar energy-producing country, leading global solar power production with significant investments in solar power plants. Vast, sparsely populated areas in West China, such as Gansu, Qinghai, Inner Mongolia, and Jiangsu, offer ideal conditions for solar energy, generating around 250 gigawatt-hours of electricity. The Tengger Desert Solar Park, with over 1,500 MW capacity, is China’s largest solar project. Government policies, including Feed-in Tariffs and subsidies, further drive the country’s growth in solar energy.

Top-10 Solar Energy Producing Countries in the World

China with the solar energy production of 250 gigawatts, stands as the largest solar energy producer in the world, followed by United States, Japan, Germany and India.

Here is the list of top-10 solar energy producing countries in the world:

World’s Largest Solar Energy Producer – China

China is the world’s largest solar energy producer, thanks to substantial investments in solar power. The country’s vast, sparsely populated regions, like Gansu and Qinghai, provide ideal conditions for solar production, generating around 250 gigawatt-hours of electricity. The Tengger Desert Solar Park, with over 1,500 MW capacity, is China’s largest project. Supportive government policies, including Feed-in Tariffs and subsidies, are key drivers of this growth in renewable energy.

Second Largest Solar Energy Producing Country in the World – United States

The United States ranks second in solar energy production, benefiting from abundant sunlight and favorable regulations. With approximately 90 gigawatt-hours of electricity generated, states like California, Arizona, and Texas lead in solar projects. The Solar Star project in California, with a 747 MW capacity, is the largest. Technological advancements and federal incentives, such as the Investment Tax Credit and net metering, have further enhanced solar energy adoption across the country.

World’s Third Largest Solar Energy Producing Country – Japan

Japan is the world’s third-largest solar energy producer, generating over 70 gigawatt-hours of electricity. Despite limited land and high population density, Japan has excelled in solar power through widespread rooftop panel installations. The Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011 accelerated the shift to solar energy. The Setouchi Kirei Solar Power Plant, with a 235 MW capacity, is Japan’s largest project. Government incentives, including soft loans and grants, further support the country’s solar energy efforts.