72% of New Energy Used in 2019 Came From Renewable Sources
By Brandon Wiggins
Renewable energy sources now account for over a third of the world’s total energy capacity.
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Renewable energy is essential for slowing down climate change and its impacts. The United Nations calls on countries to invest in clean and affordable energy as well as climate action. You can join us in taking action on this and related issues here.
The bulk of new energy generation capacity added in 2019 was made up of renewable energy sources, according to a report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Around 72% of added energy capacity in 2019 came from renewable energy sources, the report said, the highest percentage since 2001, when the report’s data begins. Renewable energy sources now make up 34.7% of total generation capacity.
"While the trajectory is positive, more is required to put global energy on a path with sustainable development and climate mitigation," Francesco La Camera, director general of IRENA, told the Guardian.
IRENA has previously stated that renewable energy sources should generate 57% of the world’s electricity by 2030 to reach "a pathway to climate safety."
Renewable energy capacity itself grew 7.4% in 2019. Solar energy and wind power made up the overwhelming majority of new renewable energy capacity, accouting for 90%, although hydropower remains the biggest source of renewable energy overall.
Over half of new renewable energy capacity added was in Asia. Non-renewable energy capacity has also continued to expand in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Renewable sources counted for at least 70% of new energy capacity in most world regions, except for Africa and the Middle East.
Transitioning the energy sector away from greenhouse gas-emitting fossil fuels, such as coal, is essential for preventing the worst effects of global climate change. Climate change poses a major obstacle to eradicating extreme poverty. Scientists warn that it could displace millions of people, cause food and water scarcity, and endanger livelihoods.
Article/Source: https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/new-energy-renewable-sources/
