India is projected to surpass the United States to become the world’s second-largest solar market in 2026, according to a recent outlook by BloombergNEF. The forecast highlights India’s rapid expansion of solar capacity and its growing influence in the global renewable energy landscape.
Strong Momentum in Solar Installations
India is expected to add over 50 gigawatts of new solar capacity in 2026, reflecting sustained growth across both utility-scale solar projects and the rooftop solar segment. Government-backed incentive schemes, falling equipment costs and rising electricity demand are driving widespread adoption of solar power across the country.
In contrast, solar capacity additions in the United States are forecast to slow during the same period due to regulatory changes and tightening eligibility requirements for clean energy incentives.
China Remains the Global Leader
While India is poised to take the second position, China is expected to retain its status as the world’s largest solar market. Although China’s annual solar installations are projected to decline compared with previous years, it will continue to dominate global solar deployment by a wide margin.
Policy Support and Industry Growth
India’s solar growth is underpinned by strong policy support aimed at achieving long-term clean energy targets. The country has set ambitious goals for expanding non-fossil fuel capacity, with solar energy playing a central role in meeting future electricity needs.
Leading solar developers and manufacturers are scaling up investments, while grid upgrades and energy storage deployment are helping integrate higher volumes of solar power into the electricity system.
Global Significance of India’s Rise
India’s ascent to become the world’s second-largest solar market marks a significant shift in global renewable energy dynamics. It reflects the growing importance of emerging economies in driving clean energy adoption and shaping the future of the global solar industry.
As solar technology continues to advance and costs decline further, India’s solar sector is expected to remain a key engine of global renewable energy growth in the years ahead.
