Renewable capacity in Asia-Pacific ex-China to almost double over next five years: IEA - Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB)
Published January 21, 2026
Renewable Capacity in Asia-Pacific Excluding China Set to Nearly Double in the Next Five Years, According to IEA
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released a report indicating that renewable energy capacity in the Asia-Pacific region, excluding China, is projected to nearly double over the next five years. This growth is attributed to a surge in investments and advancements in technology, which are expected to drive the expansion of renewable energy sources across various countries in the region.
According to the IEA's latest report, renewable energy capacity in the Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to reach approximately 1,200 gigawatts (GW) by 2027. This marks an increase from around 650 GW in 2022. The report highlights that the growth will be predominantly fueled by investments in solar and wind energy technologies, which are becoming increasingly cost-competitive.
In 2022 alone, the region saw a significant increase in renewable energy installations, with solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity leading the charge. The IEA estimates that solar capacity in the region will grow from about 300 GW in 2022 to over 700 GW by 2027. This growth is expected to be driven by favorable government policies, declining costs of solar technology, and an increasing demand for clean energy solutions.
Wind energy is also projected to experience substantial growth, with capacity expected to rise from approximately 200 GW in 2022 to around 350 GW by 2027. The report notes that both onshore and offshore wind projects are gaining traction, particularly in countries such as India, Australia, and Japan. These nations are actively working to enhance their wind energy infrastructure to meet growing energy demands and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The IEA's report emphasizes the importance of supportive policies and regulatory frameworks in facilitating the growth of renewable energy in the region. Many countries are implementing ambitious renewable energy targets and investing in grid infrastructure to accommodate the increasing share of renewables in their energy mix. The report also highlights the role of international cooperation in fostering technology transfer and capacity building, which are crucial for accelerating the deployment of renewable energy projects.
In addition to solar and wind, other renewable sources such as hydropower and biomass are also expected to contribute to the growth of renewable capacity in the Asia-Pacific region. Hydropower remains a significant source of renewable energy, particularly in countries like India and Indonesia, where large-scale hydropower projects are being developed to harness the region's abundant water resources.
Biomass energy is gaining attention as well, with several countries exploring its potential as a sustainable energy source. The IEA reports that biomass capacity is projected to increase from approximately 50 GW in 2022 to around 70 GW by 2027. This growth is driven by advancements in biomass conversion technologies and increasing awareness of the environmental benefits of utilizing organic waste for energy production.
As the Asia-Pacific region moves towards a more sustainable energy future, the IEA emphasizes the need for continued investment in research and development to enhance the efficiency and reliability of renewable energy technologies. This includes not only advancements in generation technologies but also improvements in energy storage and grid management systems, which are essential for integrating a higher share of renewables into the energy mix.
The report also highlights the challenges that the region may face in achieving its renewable energy targets. These challenges include regulatory hurdles, financing constraints, and the need for skilled labor to support the growing renewable energy sector. Addressing these challenges will be critical to unlocking the full potential of renewable energy in the Asia-Pacific region.
In conclusion, the IEA's report underscores the significant potential for renewable energy growth in the Asia-Pacific region, excluding China. With a projected increase in capacity from 650 GW to 1,200 GW by 2027, the region is poised to become a global leader in renewable energy deployment. The combined efforts of governments, industry stakeholders, and international partners will be essential in driving this transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
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