The Future of Renewable Energy and the Shift Toward Sustainability

Renewable energy is no longer a distant goal. It is becoming a central part of how the world produces and consumes power. As countries work to cut emissions and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, clean energy sources are moving from the margins to the mainstream.

According to the International Energy Agency, renewables currently generate about 26 percent of global electricity. That share is expected to rise to 30 percent by 2024. This growth is being driven by better technology, falling costs, and stronger policy support across major economies. Together, these factors are making clean energy more practical and more competitive than ever before.

Solar Power Sets the Pace

Solar energy is leading the global renewable expansion. The IEA estimates that global solar capacity will increase by around 600 gigawatts by 2024. To put that in perspective, this is nearly twice the total installed electricity capacity of Japan.

Solar is expected to account for roughly 60 percent of all new renewable capacity added in the coming years. A major reason is cost. The price of solar power is projected to fall by 15 to 35 percent by 2024, making it one of the most affordable sources of electricity in many markets. As costs continue to drop, solar is becoming a realistic option not only for utilities, but also for businesses and households.

Wind Energy Continues to Scale Up

Wind power is another pillar of the renewable transition. Global onshore wind capacity is forecast to grow by 57 percent, reaching around 850 gigawatts by 2024. Offshore wind is growing even faster, with capacity expected to nearly triple to about 65 gigawatts.

The United States and China are driving much of this expansion, supported by stable policies and competitive project auctions. Japan is also gaining momentum in offshore wind, positioning itself as an important player in the next phase of renewable development. As turbine technology improves, wind energy is becoming more efficient and viable in a wider range of locations.

Hydropower Remains a Reliable Foundation

While solar and wind are expanding rapidly, hydropower continues to play a steady and important role. By 2024, global hydropower capacity is expected to grow by about 9 percent, adding 121 gigawatts of new capacity.

Large projects in China, India, and Brazil will account for much of this increase. Despite challenges such as high upfront costs and environmental considerations, hydropower remains the world’s largest source of renewable electricity. Its ability to provide consistent, large-scale power makes it a key part of the global energy mix.

Geothermal Energy Builds Quiet Momentum

Geothermal energy does not receive as much attention as solar or wind, but it is steadily gaining ground. Global geothermal capacity is expected to grow by around 28 percent by 2024.

Asia is leading this growth, with Indonesia and the Philippines expanding their geothermal output. Kenya is also on track to become one of the world’s top geothermal producers, potentially surpassing Iceland. In the United States, the geothermal market is expected to exceed $2 billion by 2024, supported by demand for efficient heating and updated building standards.

A Clear Direction for Global Energy

The direction of travel is clear. Renewable energy is becoming cheaper, more reliable, and more widely adopted. Solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power are each playing a role in reshaping how electricity is generated around the world.

The next decade will be critical. Continued investment, supportive policies, and grid modernization will determine how quickly renewables can replace fossil fuels at scale. What is certain is that the shift toward clean energy is no longer optional. It is already underway, and it is redefining the future of global power.