Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024)

The solar energy landscape in Europe has rapidly evolved, positioning the continent as a significant player in global renewable energy production. As of 2023, the European Union (EU) boasts a total installed solar capacity of approximately 263 gigawatts (GW), making it the second-highest region in the world for solar power capacity.

This growth is underpinned by a combination of favorable geographic conditions, supportive government policies, and an increasing commitment to sustainable energy solutions amid pressing climate challenges. Germany continues to lead the pack, with over 60 GW of installed photovoltaic (PV) capacity, driven by long-standing governmental incentives and a robust public commitment to renewable energy.

Following Germany, Spain and Italy have emerged as key contributors to Europe’s solar capacity, with 8.2 GW and around 20 GW, respectively. Spain benefits from high solar irradiance levels, while Italy’s combination of favorable sunlight and supportive policies has facilitated extensive solar farm development. Other notable countries include France and the United Kingdom, which have also made substantial investments in solar infrastructure.

While established markets dominate the solar sector, emerging players from Central and Eastern Europe, such as Poland and the Czech Republic, have begun to make significant strides, each surpassing the 1 GW mark in recent years. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

These nations are increasingly investing in solar energy to enhance energy security and transition towards renewable sources. However, despite the overall expansion, challenges remain for countries with less favorable solar conditions, particularly in northern Europe, where geographic and climatic factors can hinder solar energy production.

Controversies surrounding solar energy in Europe primarily focus on regulatory frameworks, investment challenges, and public acceptance. While many countries are working to streamline permitting processes and enhance financial incentives for solar projects, the reliance on private sector investment often complicates funding and deployment. Additionally, community engagement remains crucial to ensuring that the benefits of solar energy are equitably shared, as historical resistance in certain regions highlights the importance of local participation in renewable energy initiatives.

Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024) & Future Projections

Introduction. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

The European Union (EU) is witnessing a significant expansion in solar photovoltaic (PV) energy as part of its renewable energy transition. By the end of 2024, the total installed PV capacity in the EU is expected to exceed 260 GW, driven by favorable policies, corporate investments, and increasing energy independence strategies. This report ranks the 27 EU member states based on their total installed solar capacity at the end of 2024 and outlines their expected growth trajectories.

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1. Germany ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~82 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~10-15 GW annually
• Key projects: Expansion of large-scale solar farms in Bavaria and Brandenburg, rooftop PV incentives
• Outlook: Germany remains the EU’s leader in solar energy, aiming for 215 GW by 2030.

2. Spain ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~61 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~7-10 GW annually
• Key projects: Iberdrola and Repsol large-scale PV projects, grid modernization
• Outlook: Spain will continue rapid expansion, targeting 90-100 GW by 2030.

3. Italy ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~35 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~5-7 GW annually
• Key projects: Agri-PV initiatives in southern regions, incentives for self-consumption
• Outlook: Italy aims to reach 80 GW by 2030, leveraging industrial and agricultural PV.

4. France ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~27 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~4-6 GW annually
• Key projects: Large-scale projects in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, integration with nuclear power
• Outlook: France targets 100 GW by 2050, but faces permitting challenges.

5. Netherlands ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~23 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~3-5 GW annually
• Key projects: Floating solar on water bodies, industrial rooftop installations
• Outlook: Grid congestion remains a bottleneck, but offshore and storage integration will drive growth.

6. Poland ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~18 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~3-5 GW annually
• Key projects: Large-scale PV farms in western Poland, expansion of PPA markets
• Outlook: Poland could reach 40 GW by 2030, but grid upgrades are necessary.

7. Greece ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~14 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~2-4 GW annually
• Key projects: Solar-hybrid storage systems, island PV projects
• Outlook: Greece is moving towards 25 GW by 2030, leveraging high solar irradiation.

8. Belgium ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~12 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~2-3 GW annually
• Key projects: Urban solar expansion, integration with offshore wind
• Outlook: Grid stability remains a challenge, but steady growth is expected.

9. Portugal ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~10 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~2-3 GW annually
• Key projects: Floating PV on reservoirs, hybrid solar-wind projects
• Outlook: Portugal aims for 20 GW by 2030, leveraging its strong solar potential.

10. Austria ??

• Installed capacity (2024): ~9 GW
• Expected additions (2025-2030): ~1.5-2.5 GW annually
• Key projects: Solar-PV in agricultural regions, grid decentralization projects
• Outlook: Austria is expanding its solar sector, targeting 20 GW by 2030.

Mid-Tier Solar Markets (5-9 GW in 2024). Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024). Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024)

11. Hungary ?? – 8.5 GW, expanding industrial solar parks
12. Czech Republic ?? – 7 GW, new subsidies for commercial PV
13. Romania ?? – 6.5 GW, EU-backed utility-scale projects
14. Sweden ?? – 6 GW, focus on rooftop PV in urban areas
15. Denmark ?? – 5.8 GW, hybrid solar-wind projects

Small but Growing Solar Markets (1-5 GW in 2024)

16. Finland ?? – 4.5 GW, Arctic solar developments
17. Bulgaria ?? – 3.8 GW, EU funding for new PV parks
18. Slovakia ?? – 3.2 GW, industrial PV expansion
19. Ireland ?? – 2.5 GW, government-backed solar auctions
20. Lithuania ?? – 2 GW, community solar projects
21. Slovenia ?? – 1.7 GW, decentralized PV incentives
22. Croatia ?? – 1.5 GW, hybrid solar-wind projects
23. Latvia ?? – 1.2 GW, public-private solar partnerships
24. Estonia ?? – 1 GW, floating solar on lakes

Emerging Solar Markets (<1 GW in 2024). Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

25. Luxembourg ?? – 0.8 GW, urban PV expansion
26. Cyprus ?? – 0.6 GW, island solar microgrids
27. Malta ?? – 0.4 GW, rooftop PV and battery integration

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Conclusion & Future Outlook. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

• Germany, Spain, and Italy dominate the EU solar market, contributing over 50% of total capacity.
• France, the Netherlands, and Poland are rapidly expanding, with grid and permitting reforms unlocking new capacity.
• Smaller nations like the Baltic states and Ireland are adopting community solar and storage for stability.
• By 2030, the EU aims for 600 GW of solar capacity, aligning with climate and energy security goals.

As grid constraints, policy changes, and financing models evolve, Europe’s solar energy growth will remain robust, positioning the EU as a global leader in renewable energy.

Challenges and Opportunities. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Overview of Solar Potential in Europe’s Rural Areas. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Europe’s rural regions present significant opportunities for solar energy development, with approximately 78% of the untapped solar potential located in these areas. These regions, which account for 83% of the EU’s landmass, already contribute nearly three-quarters (72%) of Europe’s renewable electricity production. The highest solar potential is concentrated in the Iberian Peninsula, the lowlands of Romania, and parts of Central-Eastern Europe, all of which face economic challenges but are positioned to leverage their solar resources effectively.

Economic Revitalization through Solar Energy. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Investing in solar energy in rural areas could stimulate economic growth and revive communities struggling with low population density or decline. A study indicates that in 20% of European regions, renewable energy sources could potentially dominate energy supply, transforming the energy landscape. Experts emphasize that engaging rural communities and promoting local ownership of solar projects are crucial for equitable benefit distribution, thereby enhancing local acceptance and participation.

Technical and Environmental Challenges. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Despite the promising potential, several challenges hinder the realization of solar energy’s benefits in rural Europe. Technical challenges such as the need for advanced energy storage solutions and modern grid infrastructure are pivotal. Technological innovations, including smart grids and efficient battery storage, are necessary to integrate renewable energy from rural areas into the larger energy system. Furthermore, geographical factors, such as local weather conditions and the orientation of solar panels, can significantly impact energy efficiency and require tailored solutions for optimal performance.

Community Engagement and Awareness. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Community awareness and engagement play a vital role in overcoming barriers to solar energy adoption. Carlos Diaz highlights the importance of educating local populations about the benefits of solar energy, which can facilitate a cultural shift towards sustainability and increase project acceptance. However, historical experiences in regions like Romania show that without proper community involvement and equitable sharing of benefits, there can be resistance and disillusionment towards renewable projects.

Regulatory and Financial Landscape. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

The regulatory environment for renewable energy projects in Europe has seen significant changes, particularly in easing permitting processes to accelerate the deployment of large-scale solar installations. However, while policy advancements are underway, investment in solar infrastructure still requires substantial funding, primarily from the private sector, with the public sector playing a supportive role to reduce financing costs and de-risk investment activities.

Comparison of Solar Capacity Across Europe. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Overview of Solar Capacity Growth

Solar energy has seen substantial growth across Europe over the past decade, with the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems reaching a record 56 GW across the EU 27 in 2023, marking a 40% increase from 2022. This momentum is expected to continue, albeit at a slower pace, with projections indicating an increase of 11% in 2024, resulting in approximately 62 GW of new capacity.

Leading Countries in Solar Capacity

Germany has regained its position as the leading country for solar installations in Europe, adding 14.1 GW in 2023. Following Germany, Spain and Italy have also made significant contributions, with 8.2 GW and 4.8 GW installed respectively. Poland and the Netherlands round out the top five with 4.6 GW and 4.1 GW, respectively. Notably, Central and Eastern European countries, such as Czechia, Bulgaria, and Romania, have emerged as new players, each surpassing the 1 GW threshold for annual solar capacity.

Solar Capacity Per Capita. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

While outright comparisons of solar capacity can be skewed by population size, evaluating solar PV capacity per capita provides a clearer picture of each country’s solar energy deployment. For instance, Greece ranks seventh among EU countries in installed solar power per capita with a capacity of 691 W/c, trailing only behind the Netherlands, Germany, and Denmark.

To calculate Solar Capacity Per Capita for all 27 EU countries, we need to divide the installed solar PV capacity (GW) by the population (millions) of each country. I’ll compute this now.

Here is the ranking of EU countries by Solar Capacity Per Capita (GW per million people) at the end of 2024:

Solar Capacity Per Capita (GW per million people).Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

1. Netherlands – 1.477
2. Greece – 1.165
3. Spain – 1.095
4. Germany – 0.986
5. Malta – 0.962
6. Portugal – 0.931
7. Luxembourg – 0.923
8. Belgium – 0.855
9. Denmark – 0.847
10. Austria – 0.739
11. Hungary – 0.729
12. Lithuania – 0.667
13. Bulgaria – 0.646
14. Italy – 0.645
15. Finland – 0.625
16. Poland – 0.613
17. Slovenia – 0.571
18. Cyprus – 0.549
19. Estonia – 0.538
20. Croatia – 0.526
21. Sweden – 0.524
22. Slovakia – 0.519
23. France – 0.485
24. Ireland – 0.481
25. Czech Republic – 0.449
26. Latvia – 0.444
27. Romania – 0.342

Key Insights:

• The Netherlands has the highest solar capacity per capita in the EU, due to aggressive rooftop solar policies.
• Southern countries (Greece, Spain, Malta, Portugal) dominate the top rankings, benefiting from high solar irradiance.
• Germany, despite being the overall leader in solar capacity (GW), ranks 4th per capita, highlighting its large population.
• Romania ranks last, indicating significant potential for solar development in the coming years.

Future Projections. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Looking ahead, various countries have set ambitious goals for future solar capacity. For example, Cyprus aims for a total capacity of 869 MW by 2030, while projections by SolarPower Europe envision a total of 2.8 GW by the same year. Similarly, Romania anticipates reaching a capacity of 8.3 GW by 2030, with even higher estimates suggesting up to 20.7 GW based on SolarPower Europe’s scenario. Slovenia’s plans include a contribution of 3.861 GWh to gross final energy use by 2030, which corresponds to about 3.1 GW of installed capacity.

Challenges and Opportunities. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Overview of Solar Potential in Europe’s Rural Areas. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Europe’s rural regions present significant opportunities for solar energy development, with approximately 78% of the untapped solar potential located in these areas. These regions, which account for 83% of the EU’s landmass, already contribute nearly three-quarters (72%) of Europe’s renewable electricity production. The highest solar potential is concentrated in the Iberian Peninsula, the lowlands of Romania, and parts of Central-Eastern Europe, all of which face economic challenges but are positioned to leverage their solar resources effectively.

Economic Revitalization through Solar Energy

Investing in solar energy in rural areas could stimulate economic growth and revive communities struggling with low population density or decline. A study indicates that in 20% of European regions, renewable energy sources could potentially dominate energy supply, transforming the energy landscape. Experts emphasize that engaging rural communities and promoting local ownership of solar projects are crucial for equitable benefit distribution, thereby enhancing local acceptance and participation.

Technical and Environmental Challenges. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

Despite the promising potential, several challenges hinder the realization of solar energy’s benefits in rural Europe. Technical challenges such as the need for advanced energy storage solutions and modern grid infrastructure are pivotal. Dr. Lena Soler points out that technological innovations, including smart grids and efficient battery storage, are necessary to integrate renewable energy from rural areas into the larger energy system. Furthermore, geographical factors, such as local weather conditions and the orientation of solar panels, can significantly impact energy efficiency and require tailored solutions for optimal performance.

Community Engagement and Awareness

Community awareness and engagement play a vital role in overcoming barriers to solar energy adoption. Carlos Diaz highlights the importance of educating local populations about the benefits of solar energy, which can facilitate a cultural shift towards sustainability and increase project acceptance. However, historical experiences in regions like Romania show that without proper community involvement and equitable sharing of benefits, there can be resistance and disillusionment towards renewable projects.

Regulatory and Financial Landscape. Ranking of EU Countries by Installed Solar PV Capacity (2024).

The regulatory environment for renewable energy projects in Europe has seen significant changes, particularly in easing permitting processes to accelerate the deployment of large-scale solar installations. However, while policy advancements are underway, investment in solar infrastructure still requires substantial funding, primarily from the private sector, with the public sector playing a supportive role to reduce financing costs and de-risk investment activities.