In 2024, renewable energy installations reached a record high, with 92.5% of new electricity sourced from clean energy. China accounted for 64% of this growth, with a total of 585 billion watts added. Despite this progress, the world is set to fall short of tripling renewable energy by 2030. UN officials stress the need for accelerated efforts to transition from fossil fuels.
In 2024, global installations of renewable energy reached an unprecedented high, with 92.5% of new electricity sourced from clean technologies such as solar and wind, according to a report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). China led these advancements, contributing nearly 64% of the new renewable energy capacity, which totaled 585 billion watts—representing a 15.1% increase from the previous year. Currently, 46% of the world’s electricity is derived from renewable sources.
Despite the significant growth, the global trajectory falls short of the international objective to triple renewable energy by 2030, with IRENA estimating an anticipated shortfall of 28%. This goal emerged in 2023 as part of collaborative efforts to combat climate change and transition from fossil fuels. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for an accelerated transition to clean energy, underscoring its benefits in economic development and environmental health.
Specifically, China added approximately 374 billion watts of renewable energy in 2024, predominantly from solar power. This accomplishment starkly surpasses contributions from other nations, achieving more than eight times the renewable energy added by the United States and five times that of Europe. China now leads the globe in solar panel capacity, boasting nearly 887 billion watts, compared to the United States’ 176 billion watts and Europe’s various contributions.
Simon Stiell, the United Nations climate chief, utilized these statistics to prompt advanced commitments from industrialized nations, specifically calling on Europe to emulate China’s progress. He remarked on climate leadership transitions and suggested Europe could harness the green energy shift as a crucial economic catalyst amid fluctuating global growth dynamics. Stiell declared that the “global renewables boom is unstoppable,” reflecting the burgeoning $2 trillion market for green energy.
Neil Grant, a senior policy analyst at Climate Analytics, stated that renewable energy growth could be even more rapid with consistent and ambitious climate policies worldwide, aiming to inspire comprehensive action and investment in clean technologies throughout the globe.
The growth of renewable energy, particularly solar power, marks a significant turning point in global energy production, spearheaded predominantly by China. However, challenges remain as the world must step up efforts to meet ambitious energy transition targets. Urging industrialized nations to enhance their commitments could provide momentum, ensuring that the benefits of this shift are fully realized in combating climate change and stimulating economic growth.
Original Source: apnews.com
