Littleton, Colorado, May 21 - Global electricity generation from solar farms is projected to exceed nuclear reactor output for the first time this summer. This milestone highlights the increasing significance of solar power in global energy systems.
While solar power generation is limited to daylight hours, its peak production months allow it to surpass many other clean energy sources. Solar farms have already begun to outperform global wind output during the Northern Hemisphere summer since last year.
Driven by the rapid expansion of solar capacity, utility-scale solar electricity generation has grown by an average of 25% annually since 2020. In the first three months of 2025, solar generation increased by 34% compared to the same period in 2024.
If this trend continues, global solar electricity output could exceed 260 terawatt hours (TWh) per month during June, July, and August. These figures would surpass the monthly output of the world's nuclear reactor fleet, which peaked at just under 252 TWh since 2019.
The rise of solar power presents both opportunities and challenges for utility operators. The intermittent nature of solar energy requires real-time system balancing with other power sources. Utilities are modernizing grids to accommodate renewable energy fluctuations and optimize power flows.
Declining battery storage costs are enabling utilities to store surplus solar power for later use. This "solar-plus-battery" model reduces reliance on fossil fuels, leading to cost savings and reduced emissions.