Global renewable energy capacity reached a record 5,149 GW in 2025, driven by unprecedented annual additions of 692 GW, according to the latest report from International Renewable Energy Agency.

The Renewable Capacity Statistics 2026 report highlights a 15.5% year-on-year increase, with renewables accounting for 85.6% of all new power capacity installed worldwide. The findings underline a continued shift away from fossil fuel-based generation, particularly as geopolitical tensions heighten concerns around energy security and price volatility.

Rising instability in key regions, including the Middle East, has placed energy resilience firmly on the global agenda. IRENA noted that renewable energy sources, being locally generated and cost-effective, offer a strategic advantage by reducing reliance on imported fuels and exposure to global market fluctuations.

Francesco La Camera, director-general of IRENA, said the sustained growth of renewables demonstrates both market momentum and their role in strengthening energy systems. He emphasised that decentralised energy models, supported by diverse renewable sources, are better equipped to withstand economic and geopolitical shocks.

Solar power continued to dominate capacity additions, contributing 511 GW in 2025, or around three-quarters of the total increase. Wind energy followed with 159 GW, meaning the two technologies together accounted for nearly 97% of all new renewable installations. Their dominance reflects continued cost reductions and scalability compared to other technologies.

Bioenergy saw modest growth, expanding by 3.4 GW, while hydropower added 18.4 GW, largely driven by developments in China. Other renewable sources, including geothermal and off-grid systems, recorded smaller but steady increases, highlighting the diversification of clean energy solutions.

Regional disparities, however, remain a key challenge. Asia led global growth, contributing more than 74% of new renewable capacity, with total additions exceeding 513 GW. The region also holds the largest installed base at 2,891 GW, reinforcing its position as the global leader in renewable deployment.

Africa recorded its strongest annual increase, with capacity rising by 15.9%, supported by projects in countries such as Ethiopia, South Africa and Egypt. The Middle East also posted significant growth of 28.9%, led by Saudi Arabia, reflecting accelerating investment in clean energy infrastructure.

In contrast, regions such as Central America and the Caribbean continue to lag, with total capacity remaining comparatively low. IRENA warned that such imbalances could leave certain economies more vulnerable to energy supply disruptions and price shocks, underscoring the need for broader adoption of renewables.

The report concludes that while progress is accelerating, achieving global climate and energy security goals will require more balanced growth across regions and sustained investment in renewable technologies.

Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has received four proposals from international developers for the Al Nouf 1 independent power producer (IPP) project.

The submissions come from a mix of global consortia and standalone firms, including partnerships led by Al Jomaih Energy and Water Company with Sembcorp Industries and EDF Power Solutions; ENGIE with Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corporation and Korea Western Power Company; and Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) with Etihad Water and Electricity. Sumitomo Corporation also submitted an individual bid.

Al Nouf 1 is set to become the UAE’s largest single-site combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) plant designed to be compatible with carbon capture technologies.

With a planned capacity of up to 3.3 GW, the project will play a critical role in ensuring reliable electricity supply as the country expands its renewable energy portfolio.

The facility will be located within the Al Nouf Complex, a newly designated coastal hub intended to support integrated power generation and water desalination.

The site has been selected for its ability to accommodate advanced reverse osmosis systems alongside energy production, enabling more efficient and lower-carbon operations.

Designed with scalability in mind, the complex is expected to host multiple large-scale projects in the future.

Using AI and digital twins

EWEC said the project will utilise high-efficiency turbines and incorporate advanced digital solutions, including artificial intelligence and digital twin technologies, to optimise performance and enhance operational resilience.

These features are intended to ensure stable output while reducing emissions intensity.

Chief executive Ahmed Ali Alshamsi said strong interest from international developers reflects the attractiveness of Abu Dhabi’s IPP programme and its transparent procurement framework.

He noted that flexible gas-fired capacity remains essential to balancing intermittent renewable energy sources and maintaining grid stability.

The development is aligned with broader national objectives, including the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy’s clean energy targets for 2035. In addition to supporting energy transition goals, the project is expected to contribute to workforce development through Emiratisation initiatives.

EWEC will now proceed with detailed technical and commercial evaluations of the bids, with the project targeted to begin commercial operations by the third quarter of 2029.

ENGIE secures PPA for 900 MW wind farm in Egypt

ENGIE has signed a Power Purchase Agreement with Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company for a 900 MW onshore wind project to be developed near Ras Shokeir

The project will follow a 25-year Build-Own-Operate model, ensuring stable and predictable revenues over the contract period.

The development will be undertaken by a consortium consisting of ENGIE with a 35% stake, Orascom Construction holding 25%, and Aeolus with 40%. Orascom Construction will also be responsible for executing all civil and electrical balance of plant works, along with supplying selected locally sourced components. Aeolus operates as an African renewable energy independent power producer platform backed by Toyota Tsusho Corporation.

With the PPA now in place, financial close is anticipated in early Q3 2026. Delivery of the first wind turbines is expected by the end of 2026. Given the scale of the project, commissioning will take place in stages, with the initial 300 MW planned to be operational by December 2027, followed by full commissioning of the 900 MW facility by mid 2028.

Upon completion, the development will represent ENGIE’s largest onshore wind installation globally, exceeding the capacity of its Assurua wind complex in Brazil, which stands at 846 MW. It will also mark the company’s third wind project in Egypt, bringing its total installed wind capacity in the country to nearly 2 GW. The initiative builds on the consortium’s proven experience, having already delivered two BOO wind farms in Egypt, Red Sea Wind Energy (650 MW) and Ras Ghareb (262.5 MW), with a combined capacity of 912.5 MW, both completed ahead of schedule and below budget.

This project further underscores ENGIE’s long term commitment to supporting Egypt’s energy transition and advancing large scale renewable energy deployment in collaboration with government stakeholders and international partners.

Paulo Almirante, ENGIE senior executive vice-president in charge of renewable & flexible power, said, “This project marks a new milestone for ENGIE in Egypt and confirms the confidence of our long-term partners in our ability to deliver largescale renewable assets. With this 900 MW wind farm, our largest onshore project worldwide, we are reinforcing our role in Egypt’s energy transition while accelerating growth in a key market for the Group.”

As the Middle East ramps up solar installations, ensuring the safety of installers has become a top priority.

In response, the organisers of Solar & Storage Live Middle East 2026 have unveiled a dedicated Installer Safety Zone on the exhibition floor, highlighting the latest solutions designed to protect the workforce driving the region’s energy transition.

The Installer Safety Zone will feature a broad range of protective equipment and tools. Electrical safety gear on display includes arc-rated clothing, insulated gloves, dielectric boots, arc flash protection and insulated tools, aimed at reducing risks during high-voltage operations.

General personal protective equipment (PPE) such as Class E hard hats, high-visibility apparel, cut-resistant gloves, hearing protection and safety eyewear will also be showcased to mitigate everyday hazards.

Fall protection systems will be another focal point, with exhibitors presenting harnesses, lifeline solutions, self-retracting lifelines (SRLs), anchor points and rooftop safety equipment to help installers work securely at height.

Environmental protection products, including UV-protective clothing, hydration systems, respiratory equipment and gear for harsh climate conditions, will also be available, ensuring workers are safeguarded in challenging outdoor environments.

Specialised tools and equipment, such as voltage testers, lockout/tagout (LOTO) kits, thermal imaging cameras, insulated matting and Class C fire extinguishers, will be highlighted to further improve onsite safety.

Compliance and training resources will cover OSHA standards, NFPA 70E electrical safety, working-at-heights certification, first aid and CPR, and local electrical code requirements, supporting installers and contractors in maintaining regulatory adherence.

The new zone aims to provide a platform for industry professionals to explore the latest innovations, meet leading suppliers and share best practices to raise safety standards across the renewable energy sector.

Dubai World Trade Centre will host Solar & Storage Live Middle East on 9–10 June 2026, offering attendees an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge safety solutions and learn how technology and training can minimise risks for frontline solar professionals.

By prioritising safety and compliance, the Installer Safety Zone seeks to reduce incidents on-site, increase installer confidence, and ensure the rapid growth of solar projects continues without compromising workforce wellbeing.