Asia leads in renewable energy growth while Africa lags - Irena

THE Renewable Energy Statistics 2025 released by the International Renewable Energy Agency (Irena) on Friday shows that despite renewables capacity growing by over 15% in 2024, the growth gap widens across regions.

- PHILIPPA LARKIN

Asia has kept its leading position since the past few years, accounting for 71% of new renewables capacity in 2024, followed by Europe and North America (respectively contributed 12.3% and 7.8% to the addition), leaving a huge gap with Africa, Eurasia, Central America and the Caribbean which together only accounted for 2.8% of total renewables capacity addition. Despite its massive economic and development opportunities, Africa only increased its renewables capacity by 7.2%.

Commenting on the data update, Irena Director-General Francesco La Camera said, “The renewable energy boom is transforming global energy markets, driving economies and creating vast investment opportunities. However, the growing regional divide highlights that not everyone is benefiting equally from this transition. Countries and regions that attract substantial investment in renewables are seeing enhanced energy security, increased industrial activity, and new jobs, fueling broader socioeconomic development.”