Record Growth in Renewable Electricity Generation
The latest data released by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reveals that renewable electricity generation grew by an unprecedented 9.8% in 2024, significantly outpacing the growth rate recorded in 2023. In contrast, non-renewable sources increased by only 1.4% over the same period. Overall, renewables accounted for 31.7% of global electricity generation in 2024, totaling 9,836 terawatt hours (TWh).
Asia Leads Global Surge
Asia emerged as the dominant region, producing 4,589 TWh of renewable electricity in 2024—a 14.3% increase driven by strong growth in all technologies, particularly solar and wind power.
The Path to a 35% Electrification Target
Drawing on IRENA’s data, the incoming COP31 Presidency of Türkiye has announced a global electrification target of 35% of final energy demand by 2035 as part of its Action Agenda. To achieve this ambition, renewables would need to increase their share in global electricity generation from 31.7% in 2024 to 78% by 2035—approximately 2.5 times today’s level.
Comments from Global Leaders
IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera stated: “The world is rallying behind electrification as a cornerstone of the energy transition, with renewable electricity as its driving force. Growing support for global electrification reflects a shared recognition that clean electricity strengthens energy security, resilience and competitiveness. This will require renewable electricity generation to expand at an unprecedented pace over the next decade—around 2.5 times today’s level. Technologies are available, the economics are compelling. Now we must swiftly shift from fossil fuels to clean electricity across buildings, transport and industry.”
Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), added: “Every nation at COP30 agreed unanimously that the global transition is now ‘irreversible’ and this new data is powerful new evidence. With renewable power generation clocking its fastest growth ever, the shift to clean energy is charging ahead, because it’s now cheaper, safer and faster-to-market, in stark contrast to this year’s ongoing fossil fuel cost chaos—driving inflation painfully higher for every economy, millions of businesses and billions of households. But despite this vast progress, the shift to clean energy is still far from fast or inclusive enough, and many vulnerable nations need significant support, making full and timely delivery of all climate finance pledges essential.”
Regional Breakdown of Renewable Generation
- Europe produced 1,758 TWh (up 7.2%), driven by increases in solar and hydropower.
- North America generated 1,535 TWh (5.8% increase).
- South America generated 1,047 TWh (2.9% increase), reflecting increases across all technologies.
- Eurasia produced 411 TWh (up 11.9%).
- Africa generated 227 TWh (5.7% increase) across all sources except geothermal.
- Oceania generated 138 TWh (3.4% increase).
- Middle East followed with 76 TWh, representing the highest regional growth rate of 17.3%.
- Central America and the Caribbean generated 55 TWh (5.8% increase).
Middle East Shows Fastest Growth
The Middle East recorded the highest regional growth rate at 17.3%, albeit from a relatively small base of 76 TWh.
Capacity Additions Hit New Highs
IRENA’s latest statistics include minor revisions to the 2025 installed renewable capacities reported in March 2026. Annual renewable capacity additions have increased notably over the past 25 years, reaching an unprecedented peak of 693 GW in 2025. At the end of 2025, renewable capacity accounted for 5.2 TW, or 49.5% of the global total. The share of renewables in total capacity expansion in 2025 was 85.7%, down from 92.7% in 2024, yet the overall positive trend confirms that renewable deployment continues to outpace non-renewable growth.
About IRENA
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is the lead intergovernmental agency for the renewable-based energy transition. With 172 members and 13 additional countries in accession, IRENA provides knowledge, technical assistance, capacity building, and project and investment facilitation to fight climate change and promote sustainable development, energy access, and energy security.