Global renewable capacity sees record growth: IRENA

ISTANBUL

Global renewable power capacity reached 5,149 gigawatts (GW) last year after a record increase of 692 GW, marking a 15.5 percent annual growth, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency's (IRENA) latest report.

Renewable energy accounted for 85.6% of total global capacity expansion last year, IRENA's Renewable Capacity Statistics 2026 report revealed.

IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera said that in the midst of uncertain time, renewable energy remains consistent and steadfast in its expansion.

This not only indicates market preference but also makes a strong case for renewable energy resilience with brutal clarity, La Camera added.

Solar energy led the capacity increase, accounting for 511 GW or 73.8 percent share in the total renewables capacity addition. Wind energy followed suit, adding 159 GW.

Asia continued to lead with a 74.2 percent contribution to all new renewable capacity.

“Africa recorded its highest capacity increase, rising by 15.9 percent or adding 11.3 GW, driven by Ethiopia, South Africa, and Egypt. Another region that experienced its largest annual growth is the Middle East, which increased by 28.9 percent, led by Saudi Arabia," the report stated.

In terms of total global capacity, Asia unsurprisingly keeps its top position with 2,891 GW of total renewables capacity, followed by Europe which recorded 934 GW in total.