Unprecedented Growth in Renewable Energy Capacity in 2024

According to a new report by the "International Renewable Energy Agency" (IRENA), global renewable energy capacity in 2024 grew by 15.1% annually to reach 4448 gigawatts. This significant increase marked a new record in the history of clean energy development.

Record Set with Addition of 585 Gigawatts of Clean Energy

According to the "Renewable Capacity Statistics 2025" report, 585 gigawatts of new capacity were added to the renewable energy grid last year, accounting for 92.5% of the total global capacity increase.

Dominance of Solar and Wind Energy in Capacity Growth

96.6% of the net growth in renewable energy capacity came from solar and wind energy. Solar energy grew by 32.2% to reach 1865 gigawatts, making up three-quarters of this increase. Wind energy also played a significant role with an 11.1% growth.

Asia and China Play a Key Role in Renewable Energy Expansion

In the regional breakdown, Asia recorded the highest capacity increase, and China alone provided about 64% of the global added capacity. After China, the Central America and Caribbean region ranked next with 3.2%. Also, G7 countries contributed around 14.3%, and G20 countries accounted for nearly 90.3% of the global increase.

Gap with Global Goals by 2030

Despite the significant growth, the IRENA report warns that this progress is still behind the goal of tripling global renewable energy capacity by 2030 . To reach the 11.2 terawatt target, an annual growth of 16.6% is required.

Regional Inequalities Persist

"Every year we see record-breaking growth in renewable energy, but regional inequalities persist and time is running out."

This is part of the remarks by Francesco La Camera, Director-General of IRENA, about the recent report. He emphasized the economic viability of renewable energy development and called on governments to turn clean energy goals into clear roadmaps.

La Camera also urged the global community to increase cooperation in supporting southern countries in achieving their clean energy targets.

UN Emphasizes a Fair Transition to Clean Energy

"This unprecedented growth creates jobs, reduces energy costs, and protects the environment. But the transition to clean energy must be faster and more equitable."

These words by Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, indicate that renewable energy is not only a substitute for fossil fuels, but also a driving force for sustainable development and global prosperity.