IEA President Birol: A new era is beginning in renewable energy

The International Energy Agency forecasts global renewable energy capacity will expand by about 4,800 gigawatts over 2026-2031, with IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol declaring a new era in renewables growth. Energy security concerns are accelerating investment, and for the first time emerging economies outside China are expected to match advanced economies in capacity additions. The shift matters because it signals that clean-energy deployment is broadening beyond traditional leaders, reshaping global energy investment and supply chains. Watch next for confirmation of the 2026-2031 buildout pace and whether emerging-market financing keeps up with the projected capacity gains.