Wind and solar capacity growth slowed in 2025, according to a study

The increase in the number of solar and wind projects planned or under construction worldwide slowed last year, according to a study published Tuesday, February 10, casting doubt on countries' ability to achieve the goal of tripling their renewable energy capacity by 2030.

Announcements and starts of new wind and solar projects increased by only 11% in 2025, compared to 22% the previous year, according to the Global Energy Monitor (GEM).

"Wind turbine manufacturers have faced political obstacles and a series of failures in wind energy auctions in wealthy countries," explained Diren Kocakusak, a researcher at GEM.

In the United States, for example, President Donald Trump has blocked wind power projects and has not hidden his aversion to renewable energy, Mr. Kocakusak pointed out, even though the global slowdown is not attributable to a single country.

The GEM study also reveals that only a small part of the growth in wind and solar energy comes from the G7 countries. Its "centre of gravity" is now "clearly shifting towards emerging and developing economies".

China thus accounted for approximately one-third of global growth in solar and wind energy capacity in 2025, with 1,5 terawatts. This is more than the combined growth of the six countries that follow it in the ranking.

This growth remains insufficient in its current state for the ambitions set for 2030. Dozens of countries had agreed in 2023 to triple their renewable energy capacities by the end of the decade to limit climate change.

According to GEM, nearly 40% of planned projects start late, are suspended or abandoned.

"The momentum seems to be slowing down, but this is not due to a lack of potential," Mr. Kocakusak told AFP.

He believes there is still "enough time" for countries to increase their capacity, and solar projects that have not yet been announced could be completed before 2030.

More than 3,5 terawatts of wind and solar projects have been announced without a confirmed start date, and could contribute to achieving the 2030 target if they are put into service quickly enough.

Some countries are still looking to boost their renewable energy production. Japan, for example, is seeking to revise its guidelines on wind power auctions, and Great Britain is stimulating investment in the sector.

But these policies are accompanied by "disappointing developments," laments Mr. Kocakusak, citing reports that Germany may limit the priority given to renewable energy on its grid.

"Whether or not the goal of tripling by 2030 is achieved will depend on the level of commitment and implementation by countries and manufacturers," he said.

Illustrative image of the article via Depositphotos.com.