Global Renewable Energy Growth Hits Record, But Still Short of 2030 Targets
A new report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) shows that global renewable energy capacity increased by a record 582 GW in 2024, but this growth is not fast enough to achieve the COP28 target of tripling renewables to 11.2 TW by 2030. The report calls for a 16.6% annual growth rate in new capacity, much higher than current levels, and urges urgent investment in grids, supply chains, and clean-tech manufacturing, as well as integration of stronger renewable targets into national climate plans ahead of COP30[5][1].
Apple Announces Major Expansion of Renewable Energy Projects Across Europe
Apple has unveiled new large-scale solar and wind projects in Greece, Italy, Latvia, Poland, and Romania, adding 650 MW of renewable energy capacity to European grids. These projects, part of Apple’s goal to match all customer electricity use worldwide with clean energy by 2030, are expected to generate over 1 million megawatt-hours of clean electricity and unlock more than $600 million in financing[2].
Solar and Wind Cover All Global Electricity Demand Growth in First Half of 2025
In the first half of 2025, new solar and wind installations were sufficient to meet the entire increase in global electricity demand, resulting in a slight decline in fossil fuel power generation. This shift demonstrates the accelerating impact of renewables on the global energy mix and highlights progress in reducing reliance on fossil fuels[4].
Urgent Calls for Grid and Supply Chain Investment as Energy Transition Accelerates
The latest global progress report emphasizes that investment in electricity grids, supply chains, and clean-tech manufacturing for solar, wind, batteries, and hydrogen is now critical to support rapid renewable energy deployment. The report highlights the need for governments to double current investments and prioritize infrastructure modernization to maintain momentum toward climate goals[5].