IRENA: Almost ten percent expansion worldwide. However, the pace of expansion must be accelerated.
In 2022, global electricity generation from renewables was expanded by 295 gigawatts (GW), an increase of 9.6 percent. China accounted for by far the largest share with 141 GW, followed by Europe (57.3 GW) and North America (29.1 GW). This is shown by figures from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Renewables accounted for 83 percent of all electricity capacity added last year, with solar and wind power dominating. Overall, global generation capacity from renewable energy sources stood at 3,372 GW at the end of the year.
The continued record growth demonstrates the resilience of renewables amid the ongoing energy crisis, said IRENA Director General Francesco La Camera. Their share of the global energy mix has increased year after year – yet the current level must triple by 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, he said.
In previous publications, the organization pointed to the important role of critical materials such as lithium and rare earths in a successful energy transition. To avoid supply problems, especially in this decade, IRENA recommends, among other things, increased mining, more recycling and substitution of certain raw materials in products. As we reported, a platform was also launched just over a year ago to enable members to exchange ideas and coordinate projects.
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