The Global Solar Council (GSC) is marking its 10th anniversary with a renewed call for governments and investors to intensify efforts to scale up solar photovoltaic (PV) deployment, emphasizing the need for faster permitting, improved grid infrastructure, and more accessible financing.
Founded at COP21 in 2015 alongside the signing of the Paris Agreement, GSC was created to represent the unified voice of the global solar industry. A decade later, the organisation says solar energy is reshaping the global power landscape, with more than 2 terawatts (TW) of installed capacity, 4.9 million jobs created, and over 2.4 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions avoided.
“The last decade was about proving what solar can do. The next will be about ensuring it becomes the world’s leading electricity source,” said Sonia Dunlop, chief executive of GSC. “From 2TW today to over 8TW by 2030, we know what’s needed: cheaper and more accessible finance, smarter grids, investment in storage, resilient supply chains, and a skilled global workforce.”
The Council noted that solar PV is now present in over 190 countries, with installation costs declining by more than 80% in many markets. As part of its anniversary activities, GSC plans a series of events, roundtables, and advocacy campaigns throughout 2025 at major energy and political forums.
GSC supports international efforts to triple global renewable energy capacity by 2030, a target championed by several climate and energy stakeholders. According to the International Energy Agency, solar could become the largest source of electricity by 2035—provided key barriers are addressed in time.
The Council now has members in over 70 countries across seven global regions and continues to focus on building inclusive solar markets and strengthening global collaboration.
