Global Renewable Capacity Hits 4,448 GW in 2024, Solar Alone Reaches 1,865 GW

Global renewable energy capacity reached an all-time high of 4,448 gigawatts (GW) by the end of 2024, according to the Renewable Capacity Statistics 2025 report released today by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The world added 585 GW of renewable capacity last year, representing a 92.5% share of total power expansion and a record 15.1% annual growth rate.

Despite this achievement, IRENA warns that current progress is not enough to meet the global goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030—an essential step toward meeting climate targets. To reach the required 11.2 terawatts, renewable energy must now grow by at least 16.6% annually over the next six years.

The report also highlights major geographic disparities. Asia dominated global growth, with China alone contributing nearly 64% of new capacity. In contrast, Central America and the Caribbean accounted for just 3.2%. The G7 countries were responsible for 14.3% of the additions, while G20 nations accounted for 90.3%.

“Renewables continue to prove their economic viability and scalability, year after year,” said IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera. “But we face the same challenges—regional inequality and the urgency of meeting our 2030 goals.” He urged governments to utilize their upcoming Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs 3.0) to present clear renewable energy targets, and called for stronger international support for Global South nations.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres also commented on the progress, stating: “Renewable energy is powering down the fossil fuel age. But the shift must be faster and fairer so all countries can benefit.”

Solar and wind energy continued to dominate renewable growth, accounting for 96.6% of all net additions in 2024. Solar photovoltaics saw the most significant increase, expanding by 32.2% (451.9 GW), bringing the global total to 1,865 GW. China led with 278 GW, followed by India at 24.5 GW. Wind energy, though growing at a slower pace, added to the momentum with an 11.1% increase, reaching a global total of 1,133 GW. China and the United States remained the top contributors in wind power expansion.