Figures released today by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reveal a global clean power industry in rude health.
The Renewable Capacity Statistics 2018 report, which draws on data from ‘200 countries and territories’, shows generating capacity grew 8.3% in 2017; with the 167 GW added bringing the global total to 2,179 GW.
Solar and wind power led the upward trend, jumping 32% and 10% last year, with China the leading nation – contributing around half of all new capacity.
IRENA Director-General Adnan Z. Amin said: “This latest data confirms that the global energy transition continues to move forward at a fast pace, thanks to rapidly falling prices, technology improvements and an increasingly favourable policy environment. Renewable energy is now the solution for countries looking to support economic growth and job creation, just as it is for those seeking to limit carbon emissions, expand energy access, reduce air pollution and improve energy security.”
The direction of travel was demonstrated with Portugal’s announcement that renewable electricity production outstripped demand last month.
And despite a lack of support for clean energy in the White House – what our interview with Jodie Van Horn, Director of the Sierra Club’s Ready for 100 campaign in America made clear, is that communities across the country are still actively moving towards a 100% green power future.
