Bangkok (AFP) - Solar and wind projects planned or under construction around the world lost momentum last year, according to an analysis published Tuesday, casting doubt on whether countries will reach the goal of tripling their renewable energy capacity by the end of the decade.

First modification: 02/10/2026 - 06:07 Last modification: 02/10/2026 - 13:10

In 2023, dozens of countries agreed to triple energy capacity from green sources by 2030 as part of efforts to limit global warming.

However, announcements and construction starts of new wind and solar projects grew by only 11% in 2025, up from 22% the previous year, as wind development initiatives hit roadblocks, according to Global Energy Monitor (GEM).

"Wind developers faced political barriers and a spate of failed wind power auctions in rich countries," said Diren Kocakusak, research analyst at GEM.

The president of the United States, Donald Trump, has blocked wind projects and has made no secret of his antipathy towards renewable energies, although the global decline cannot be attributed to any specific country, according to Kocakusak.

GEM's research also revealed that only a small part of the growth in wind and solar energy came from the rich G7 countries, and that the "center of gravity" is now shifting "decisively towards emerging and developing economies."

As has been the case for years, China is expanding its renewable capacity on a scale unmatched anywhere else.

It accounted for about a third of global capacity growth in 2025 (1.5 terawatts), more than the growth of the next six countries combined.

But that was not enough to put the world on track to meet the 2030 goal.

Even if all the projects announced and currently under construction were carried out, the planet would still fall short of the goal.

GEM research revealed that almost 40% of planned projects begin operations after the announced start date, or are suspended or scrapped.

However, Kocakusak said that did not mean the goal was unattainable.

"Momentum seems to be slowing, but that is not due to a lack of potential," he told AFP.

There is still "plenty of time" for countries to increase capacity, and solar projects that have not yet been announced could be completed before 2030, he said.

© 2026 AFP

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