The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has reported a record-breaking expansion in renewable energy, with 585 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity added in 2024, bringing the global total to 4,448 GW. According to IRENA's Renewable Capacity Statistics 2025, this accounts for 92.5% of total global power expansion, marking an annual growth rate of 15.1%.

Despite this rapid growth, the world remains behind the trajectory needed to triple renewable capacity to 11.2 terawatts by 2030. To meet this goal, annual expansion must now increase to 16.6%.

Asia dominated the expansion, with China contributing nearly 64% of global additions. The G7 and G20 nations accounted for 14.3% and 90.3%, respectively, of new capacity. Solar and wind energy led the way, contributing 96.6% of total renewable growth. Solar energy grew by 32.2% to reach 1,865 GW, while wind power expanded to 1,133 GW. Bioenergy and hydropower also showed strong growth, driven by China, France, and emerging markets.

IRENA Director-General, Francesco La Camera, emphasized the need for stronger international collaboration and more ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs 3.0) to ensure equitable progress, particularly in the Global South. United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of renewables, urging a faster and fairer transition away from fossil fuels.

While decommissioning of fossil fuel power plants in some regions has boosted the share of renewables, experts stress that accelerated action is necessary to meet the Paris Agreement and 2030 targets.

Source: irena.org