Global Renewable Capacity Surges by 692GW in 2025 as Energy Security Concerns Intensify – International Renewable Energy Agency

 

Global renewable energy capacity recorded a sharp increase in 2025, rising by 692 gigawatts (GW) to reach a total of 5,149 GW, according to the latest report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

The report, Renewable Capacity Statistics 2026, shows that renewables accounted for 85.6% of all new power capacity added worldwide, underlining their growing dominance in the global energy mix. This represents a 15.5% annual increase and highlights the accelerating shift away from fossil fuels.

The surge comes amid renewed geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, which have heightened concerns over energy security, supply disruptions, and volatile fossil fuel prices. IRENA noted that renewable energy—being locally available, cost-effective, and rapidly deployable—offers countries a more stable and resilient alternative.

Director-General of IRENA, Francesco La Camera, said the sector continues to show strong momentum despite global uncertainty.

“In the midst of uncertain times, 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,” he said.

Solar and wind energy remained the primary drivers of growth. Solar alone accounted for 511 GW—about 75% of total renewable additions—while wind contributed 159 GW. Combined, the two technologies made up nearly 97% of all new renewable capacity, reflecting falling costs and widespread adoption.

Other sources recorded more modest gains. Bioenergy capacity rose by 3.4 GW, while hydropower added 18.4 GW, largely driven by China. Geothermal energy saw limited growth, increasing by just 0.3 GW.

Regionally, Asia maintained its dominance, contributing 74.2% of new renewable capacity, with 513.3 GW added. Europe followed with substantial installed capacity, while Africa posted its strongest-ever growth, expanding by 15.9% or 11.3 GW, led by countries such as Ethiopia, South Africa, and Egypt. The Middle East also recorded a notable expansion of 28.9%, driven by Saudi Arabia.

Despite the global progress, the report highlights significant regional disparities. Central America and the Caribbean remain the least developed in renewable capacity, underscoring uneven investment patterns and exposing some regions to greater energy vulnerability.

IRENA stressed that countries investing in renewable energy are better insulated from global shocks, benefiting from improved energy security, economic resilience, and competitiveness.

More decentralised energy systems, with a growing share of renewables and more market players, are structurally more resilient,” Francesco La Camera added.

The report concludes that while renewable energy expansion is accelerating, closing regional gaps through increased and more balanced investment will be critical to achieving global energy security and sustainability goals.