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).<\/p>\n
Asia emerged as the dominant region, producing 4,589 TWh of renewable electricity in 2024\u2014a 14.3% increase driven by strong growth in all technologies, particularly solar and wind power.<\/p>\n
Drawing on IRENA’s data, the incoming COP31 Presidency of T\u00fcrkiye 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\u2014approximately 2.5 times today’s level.<\/p>\n
IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera stated: \u201cThe 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\u2014around 2.5 times today\u2019s level. Technologies are available, the economics are compelling. Now we must swiftly shift from fossil fuels to clean electricity across buildings<\/a>, transport and industry.\u201d<\/p>\n Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), added: \u201cEvery nation at COP30 agreed unanimously that the global transition is now \u2018irreversible\u2019 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\u2019s now cheaper, safer and faster-to-market, in stark contrast to this year\u2019s ongoing fossil fuel cost chaos\u2014driving 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.\u201d<\/p>\n The Middle East recorded the highest regional growth rate at 17.3%, albeit from a relatively small base of 76 TWh.<\/p>\nRegional Breakdown of Renewable Generation<\/h2>\n
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Middle East Shows Fastest Growth<\/h3>\n
Capacity Additions Hit New Highs<\/h2>\n