2025 in data: power capacity and generation, deals and job trends

Core Insights - The solar industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by decreasing costs and increased demand, particularly in China, the US, India, and Brazil [3][6][10] - Renewables have overtaken coal in power generation for the first time, with solar, wind, and hydropower accounting for 34% of generation compared to coal's 31% [10][11] - The global power industry saw a decline in the number of deals but an increase in total deal value, particularly in North America [26][27] Group 1: Solar Industry Developments - Solar module prices have decreased, with average project costs dropping 81% since 2010 and expected to fall another 21% in the next five years [1] - The solar supply chain is currently oversupplied, with production capabilities nearly double the demand for polysilicon, wafers, cells, and modules [2] - GlobalData projects that global solar capacity will reach nearly 3 terawatts (TW) by the end of 2025 and exceed 8 TW within the next decade [6] Group 2: Renewable Energy Trends - Renewables accounted for nearly half of the cumulative capacity mix this year, with solar PV contributing 64.1% and wind 16.4% [4] - Despite challenges, renewables continue to expand due to entrenched economics and supportive policies, with long-term frameworks like the US Inflation Reduction Act and EU Green Deal fostering project pipelines [11] - Coal remains a significant source of electricity, projected to contribute 85% of South Africa's power mix in 2025, highlighting the uneven pace of the transition [14] Group 3: Market Dynamics and Employment - The global power industry recorded 16% fewer deals in 2025 compared to 2024, but total deal value surged by 15%, with North America leading in both deal count and value [26][27] - Employment in the power sector saw dramatic fluctuations, peaking in Q1 and declining through Q4 due to various pressures, including regulatory changes and weather conditions [33][36] - Job postings related to tariffs increased by 657%, reflecting the impact of US trade policies on the energy market [37]