April 26 is observed globally as World Renewable Energy Day, highlighting the growing role of clean energy in shaping a low-carbon future. The date also marks the anniversary of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, a reminder of the long-term risks linked to conventional energy systems.
Renewables are now at the center of the global energy transition. Solar, wind, hydropower and other clean sources are steadily replacing fossil fuels as countries work toward climate targets and more resilient energy systems.
According to International Renewable Energy Agency, the momentum continues to build. By the end of 2025, renewable power capacity accounted for nearly half of global installed capacity, reaching around 49%, while 85.6% of all newly added power capacity came from renewables.
The scale of expansion is also accelerating. In 2025 alone, the world added a record 692 GW of renewable capacity, with solar energy driving most of the growth, followed by wind.
At the same time, the transition remains uneven. China, the United States and the European Union accounted for nearly 80% of new capacity additions, while regions such as Africa still represent only a small share of global deployment despite recent growth.
As governments and businesses push forward with decarbonization, World Renewable Energy Day is a moment to take stock. The shift to clean energy is no longer just an environmental priority. It is increasingly tied to economic competitiveness, energy security and the long-term quality of life in cities and regions worldwide.