How Domestic Renewables Strengthen Energy Security​

2025 marks another record for installed renewable power capacity with almost 700 GW of new additions, highlighting the continued momentum for renewables.

Renewables accounted for 85.6% of global power capacity additions, while non-renewables continue to account for a smaller share of additions.

The ongoing strong performance is proof of renewables resilience, signaling countries to strengthen their energy security with domestic renewable sources, as they are less vulnerable to international market shocks.

Hybrid systems—solar and wind paired with storage– already deliver 24/7 electricity at costs competitive with fossil-fuel, driven by falling costs for renewable technologies and battery storage.

Firm levelised costs of electricity for solar plus storage range from USD 54 to USD 82 per megawatt-hour (MWh) in high-quality resource regions, compared with USD 70–85 per MWh for new coal in China and more than USD 100 per MWh for new gas globally.

With more than 85% of new renewables now cheaper than fossil fuel alternatives, the business case for renewables have never been stronger. The race is no longer about adding renewable energy capacity. It’s about building resilience through domestic renewable energy sources that insulate countries from energy crisis and economic damage.

Those countries that have invested substantially in renewables have been demonstrably less exposed to the effects of the present crisis by reduced dependence on fossil fuel imports.

From fuel shortages to supply chain shocks, energy security is being redefined. Reducing import dependency and increasing energy security are not only about deploying renewable energy but also strengthening the supply chains that support it.

To secure a sustainable energy future and address the market risks, countries should promote domestic and regional supply chain development for technologies across renewable energy, energy storage, and energy infrastructure value chains.

As geopolitical tensions rise, energy demand grows and fossil fuel markets become increasingly volatile. The global energy transition is entering a new phase, with electrification and renewable power emerging as the foundation of future energy systems.

From transport and industry to buildings and cooling, renewable-powered electrification is increasingly seen as the key to reducing fossil fuel dependence, strengthening energy security and accelerating climate action. IRENA’s revised 1.5°C Scenario supports COP31 Presidency’s Action agenda target of 35% global electrification by 2035.

Global energy disruptions are impacting supply chains, livelihoods, and energy access. These challenges highlight the need to prioritise actions that enhance long-term energy security.

Governments must urgently consider targeted interventions to steer investment and emergency responses towards the deployment of domestic renewable power and the electrification of energy-consuming processes and sectors.

Recommended actions for policy makers are laid out in IRENA policy advisory, From energy crisis to energy security: Actions for policy makers.