Global renewable energy capacity reached a record 4,448 GW in 2024, yet it still falls short of the 11.2 terawatts needed to meet climate goals. Despite significant growth, the pace remains insufficient to stay on track for the 2030 targets.
The world hit a big milestone in 2024, adding more renewable energy than ever before. According to IRENA’s latest report, global renewable capacity jumped to 4,448 gigawatts (GW)—a 15% increase from the year before. Most of that growth came from solar and wind, with solar alone adding a massive 452 GW. But while the numbers are impressive, experts say we’re still not moving fast enough to stay on track with climate commitments.
To meet the goals of the Paris Agreement—including the pledge to triple global renewable energy by 2030—we need to hit 11.2 terawatts of capacity. That means an average annual growth rate of 16.6% going forward, which we’re still falling short of. “We also face the same challenges of great regional disparities and the ticking clock, as the 2030 deadline is imminent,” said IRENA Director General Francesco La Camera. Nearly 64% of new global renewable capacity was built in China, which alone added 278 GW of solar last year. In contrast, the G7 countries contributed just 14.3%, while Central America and the Caribbean trailed behind at 3.2%.
As Reuters highlighted, even though there has been strong growth in renewable energy, we’re still not growing fast enough to meet the targets. The push to reach 16.6% annual growth is a big challenge and will require better collaboration, stronger investments, and support for the regions that are lagging behind.
At Energy Academy Indonesia (ECADIN), we’re committed to making the energy shift happen in a way that’s fair and inclusive. Our mission is to help speed up the transition by linking research, policy, business, and finance. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, we’re doing our part to make sure renewable energy growth keeps up with the urgency of the climate crisis—and that no region is left behind.
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