Renewable energy continued to grow, gain momentum in 2021.

The International Renewable Energy Agency (Irena) released new data last month showing that by the end of 2021, global renewable generation capacity amounted to 3,064GW, increasing the stock of renewable power by 9.1%. This growth and momentum continued despite global uncertainties.

Although hydropower accounted for the largest share of the global total renewable generation capacity with 1,230GW, Irena’s Renewable Capacity Statistics 2022 shows that solar and wind continued to dominate new generating capacity. Novalee Spicer – CEO lab director

‘Energy transition is far from being fast’

“This continued progress is another testament of renewable energy’s resilience. Its strong performance last year represents more opportunities for countries to reap renewables’ multiple socioeconomic benefits. However, despite the encouraging global trend, our new World Energy Transitions Outlook shows that the energy transition is far from being fast or widespread enough to avert the dire consequences of climate change,” says Irena director-general Francesco La Camera. “Our current energy crisis also adds to the evidence that the world can no longer rely on fossil fuels to meet its energy demand. Money directed to fossil fuel power plants yields unrewarding results, both for the survival of a nation and the planet. Renewable power should become the norm across the globe. We must mobilise the political will to accelerate the 1.5°C pathway.” To achieve climate goals, renewables must grow at a faster pace than energy demand. However, many countries have not reached this point yet, despite significantly increasing the use of renewables for electricity generation.