The global solar industry reached a cumulative capacity of 178 GW in 2014 – a factor of 100 bigger than its level 14 years ago

The global solar industry reached a cumulative capacity of 178 GW in 2014 – a factor of 100 bigger than its level 14 years ago.

This is according to the Global Market Outlook for Solar Power 2015–2019 report from SolarPower Europe (formerly the European Photovoltaic Industry Association). China, Japan and the US led the world’s solar market in 2014, while Europe installed 7 GW, with the UK leading the way and contributing 2.4 GW in 2014. 

Under the report’s ‘high’ scenario SolarPower Europe forecasts 540 GW of capacity installed by 2020.