|30 March 2017|
GLOBAL
New solar energy developments led last year’s record-breaking worldwide growth in renewable energy, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Its Renewable Energy Capacity Statistics 2017 report said renewable generation capacity grew by 161 gigawatts (GW) – 8.7% – last year, making it the “strongest year ever for new capacity additions”.
IRENA Director-General Adnan Z. Amin said: “We are witnessing an energy transformation taking hold around the world, and this is reflected in another year of record breaking additions in new renewable energy capacity. This growth in deployment emphasizes the increasingly strong business case for renewables which also have multiple socio-economic benefits in terms of fueling economic growth, creating jobs and improving human welfare and the environment. But accelerating this momentum will require additional investment in order to move decisively towards decarbonising the energy sector and meet climate objectives. This new data is an encouraging sign that though there is much yet to do, we are on the right path,” Mr. Amin added.
Asia spearheaded developments – accounting for 58% of new renewable additions, according to the report.
