Solar Power Hits 75% of New Renewable Energy in 2025

The world added more solar power in 2025 than ever before, with panels and solar farms making up 75% of all new renewable energy built last year.

The International Renewable Energy Agency released its annual report Tuesday showing global renewable capacity jumped to 5,149 gigawatts in 2025. That's a 15.5% increase after adding 692 gigawatts of clean power in just one year.

Solar led the charge with 511 gigawatts of new capacity, a 27% jump from the previous year. Wind energy followed with 159 gigawatts added, while hydropower, bioenergy, and geothermal contributed smaller amounts.

Africa recorded its highest renewable energy growth on record, adding 11.3 gigawatts of new capacity. Ethiopia, South Africa, and Egypt drove most of that expansion, with off-grid solar solutions reaching communities that have never had reliable electricity access.

The Middle East saw its biggest growth rate ever at 28.9%, adding 12.7 gigawatts. Saudi Arabia led that regional surge, showing how quickly countries can shift toward clean energy when they commit.

Asia continued to dominate the global picture, accounting for more than 70% of all new renewable capacity added worldwide. Together, solar and wind made up nearly 97% of all renewable additions, cementing their position as the future of global energy.

The Ripple Effect

Countries that invested heavily in renewable energy are now seeing rewards beyond clean air. Francesco La Camera, director-general of IRENA, points out these nations weathered recent Middle East energy crises with far less economic damage than countries still dependent on imported fossil fuels.

A more decentralized energy system with renewables and diverse suppliers creates natural protection against price shocks and supply disruptions. When one country faces problems, others keep generating clean power from their own sun and wind.

The shift comes as fossil fuel price swings and geopolitical tensions expose the real risks of depending on energy imports. Countries with strong renewable systems are discovering they're not just cutting emissions but building long-term economic resilience.

The report highlights a growing gap between regions, though. While some areas race ahead with clean energy, others still struggle with access to basic electricity. IRENA called for increased investment in regions with lower renewable capacity to help close that divide.

The world is proving that clean energy isn't just possible but unstoppable, with 2025 marking the highest annual renewable growth ever recorded.