By Abdullahi Lukman
Global renewable energy capacity is set to expand significantly, with solar and wind leading the charge, according to a new report by the International Energy Agency (IEA).
The IEA projects total capacity to grow by an amount equal to the combined energy output of China, the EU, and Japan by 2030.
Solar power is expected to double over the next five years, driven by falling costs and simplified permitting processes.
Wind power is also set to nearly double, surpassing 2,000 gigawatts by the end of the decade, though supply chain disruptions and rising costs pose challenges.
Despite this growth, the IEA has reduced its forecast by 5% compared to last year, citing recent policy changes in the United States and China.
Still, China remains the dominant force, accounting for nearly 60% of global renewable growth and potentially reaching its targets five years ahead of schedule.
India and the European Union are also key contributors, while the U.S. is expected to fall behind due to political uncertainty.
Meanwhile, scientists warn that global warming is reaching dangerous levels, with average temperatures already 1.3–1.4°C above pre-industrial levels.
Although a global shift away from fossil fuels is underway, experts urge more aggressive action to cut carbon emissions and avoid worsening climate impacts.