Nearly Half the World’s Power Capacity Is Now Renewable — What That Really Means

Read the full article here.

The numbers landing from the new International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) report, “Renewable Capacity Statistics 2026,” show significant and encouraging progress. A record 692 GW of renewable energy capacity was added globally in 2025, pushing total worldwide renewable power capacity to 5.14 terawatts — 49% of global installed power capacity.

Asia accounted for 74.2% of all new renewable capacity in 2025, a share so dominant it raises an obvious question: is this a global energy transition or a regional one?

The counterpoint is the speed of growth elsewhere. Africa recorded its highest-ever annual capacity increase, adding 11.3 GW — a 15.9% rise compared to the previous year, driven by Ethiopia, South Africa, and Egypt. The Middle East grew by 28.9% year-on-year, led by Saudi Arabia — notable, given the kingdom’s parallel role in global oil markets, but reflecting genuine pressure to diversify.

However, the inverse examples exist too. Central America and the Caribbean recorded a combined total of just 2 GW of renewable capacity — less than what China adds in weeks. They are smaller markets, but the numbers are still very low.

Source: Solargis