Renewable energy sources accounted for nearly 50% of global electricity capacity by the end of 2025, representing 85.6% of the year’s capacity expansion. This figure marks a decline from 2024, when renewables comprised about 92% of new capacity additions. Solar power emerged as the leading technology, contributing nearly three-quarters of the 692 gigawatts (GW) added in 2025, which propelled the total installed renewable capacity up by a record 15.5% year-over-year. By the end of 2025, renewable energy sources made up 49.4% of the world’s total electricity capacity, with variable sources such as solar and wind accounting for approximately 35%. Notably, it was in 2023 that renewable sources first surpassed 30% of global electricity generation.
Why It Matters
The significant increase in renewable energy capacity illustrates a global shift toward sustainable electricity sources amid rising concerns about climate change. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reports that renewable energy capacity has been rapidly expanding, highlighting the transition from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives. The rebound in non-renewable capacity additions in 2025, despite the overall growth in renewables, indicates ongoing challenges in achieving complete reliance on sustainable energy. This data underscores the importance of continued investment and innovation in renewable technologies to meet global energy demands while addressing environmental impacts.
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