Solar energy is becoming a central feature of economic and environmental policy as Spain accelerates its energy transition. A year of sustained incentives and a clear public commitment has propelled solar projects across the country. Beyond the environmental benefits, this industry is increasingly a generator of jobs, drawing more attention as the number of people employed in solar initiatives has doubled within twelve months.
The latest findings from UNEF, the Spanish Photovoltaic Association, highlight rapid and striking progress in 2022. This momentum stands out even when compared with other renewable sources, with wind energy showing steadier growth. The annual report paints a picture of a sector that is advancing the country’s decarbonization and industrial revitalization at a remarkable pace.
In brief, photovoltaic energy has emerged as a leading technology in Spain’s energy transition, helping drive decarbonization and the reshaping of the industrial landscape.
Solar park in Seville
Solar energy doubled its installed capacity in a single year, reaching 240 gigawatts of newly installed photovoltaic capacity, a 137 percent increase from 2021. Additionally, 4,701 megawatts of above-ground plants were added, accounting for more than 30 percent of total capacity. Self-consumption rose 108 percent to 2,507 megawatts.
A sector that creates employment
Installed capacity is not the only strength of renewable solar power. The photovoltaic market has become a significant employer, with the workforce in this field expanding rapidly. Some 197,383 Spanish workers have direct, indirect, or induced ties to photovoltaic activity, with 59,100 directly employed, 97,600 indirectly, and 40,683 in related roles. The growth reflects installations, maintenance, and ongoing research in this clean energy sector.
During the 2022 presentation of the annual report, the association underscored the view that Spain stands at the dawn of a third industrial revolution—one powered by competitive and sustainable energy capable of shaping a robust business fabric, attracting investment, and addressing climate challenges.
In terms of domestic production, about 65 percent of photovoltaic equipment can be manufactured in Spain. Exports from the sector reached 4.94 billion euros, reflecting an 81 percent rise from the previous year.
The Made in Spain advantage: up to 65% of equipment produced domestically
Analysts point to several drivers behind these outcomes: growing competitiveness in photovoltaic technology, the EU Recovery Funds supporting self-consumption, and the persistent commitment of Spanish citizens to climate action. The emphasis on a strong domestic base and a favorable policy environment has been a key driver, according to the UNEF president.
Still, the association also highlighted the challenges that lie ahead if the sector is to sustain its gains. Ensuring stability over time requires addressing administrative bottlenecks, securing reliable supply chains, and implementing effective pricing and grid management. The storage of energy and the use of renewable hydrogen also require continued attention and public communication to build broad social support.
The UNEF leader noted that these obstacles are shared by society as a whole and must be addressed through collaboration among industry, government, and media. The mission remains to harness photovoltaic potential to transform the country while advancing social and economic resilience.
Photovoltaic installation in Spain
On the global stage, installed photovoltaic capacity reached 1,185 gigawatts despite several international disruptions. China continues to lead as the single largest contributor, with annual additions surpassing 106 gigawatts. The European Union climbed to second place, nearly doubling its 2021 installations to set a new record of 41 gigawatts. Spain ranked as the leading market within Europe for 2022, adding 7.2 gigawatts and surpassing Germany, a longtime European leader in this sector.
Worldwide, photovoltaic energy accounts for roughly 31 percent of global renewable electricity production and ranks as the second-largest source of electrical power after hydro. This broad progress comes amid ongoing transitions and investments across regions, underscoring the importance of solar power in meeting climate and energy security goals.
For more context, the European Union has grown its photovoltaic footprint substantially, positioning itself as a major player in global solar development. The region witnessed a 47 percent increase in installations from 2021 to 2022, culminating in over 208 gigawatts of cumulative capacity. Spain remains a key European market, contributing significantly to EU growth and signaling continued momentum in the years ahead.
The global trajectory suggests that solar energy will remain a central pillar of energy systems worldwide, providing cleaner electricity while opening opportunities for industrial innovation and employment. As nations pursue resilient and sustainable grids, solar power continues to move from a niche technology to a mainstream cornerstone of economic strategy and environmental stewardship.