La solar energy is going through one of the most intense periods in its recent history. According to a report by Wood Mackenzie, during the first half of 2026, the strong demand for projects coincided with a complex context marked by geopolitical tensions, supply chain limitations, and increasingly intense technological competition.
In the United States, electricity growth forecasts were revised upwards: an increase of 3.2% in the next decade is expected, mainly driven by the boom in data centers, responsible for two-thirds of that additional demand.
Solar as a driver of the energy transition
In this scenario, solar energy is consolidating as the second fastest-growing source in generation capacity, only behind natural gas.
Between 2026 and 2035, an increase of 465 TWh is expected, thanks to its economic competitiveness, reliability, and speed of installation.
Technological innovation
The dominant technology remains TOPCon, based on N-type solar cells, which will lead the market at least until 2028. However, it is approaching its theoretical efficiency limits, driving the search for new alternatives:
- Perovskite and silicon tandem cells: achieve efficiencies above 34% in the laboratory.
- Challenges: stability against heat and humidity, delaying their mass production until the end of the decade.
Costs and raw materials
The price of silver, essential in TOPCon cells, has doubled in the last year and already represents a quarter of the total production cost.
This has accelerated the search for alternatives, such as reducing its use and partially replacing it with copper.
Balcony solar energy
A prominent phenomenon in 2026 is the expansion of balcony solar energy in the United States. This system allows the installation of small plug-in panels on balconies and terraces for self-consumption.
- States like Maine and Colorado have already passed laws facilitating its implementation.
- Maryland and Virginia are moving in the same direction.
- In Illinois and Oregon, electrical sector unions opposed due to safety risks and reduced work for professional installers.
Despite the controversy, more than half of the states are studying measures to promote this modality.
International obstacles
Large solar projects in the United Arab Emirates and other Middle Eastern countries face delays due to regional instability and logistical difficulties arising from conflicts.
Despite the challenges, the trend is clear: solar energy continues to gain prominence in the global energy transition. Its accelerated expansion in 2026 reflects both its competitiveness and the urgency to diversify sources in the face of growing electricity demand.
The next decade will be decisive in consolidating its role as one of the key technologies in the fight against climate change.
