World Renewable Energy Day, observed on April 26, is once again marked this year by strong results in the global energy transition. The past year was characterized by further expansion of renewable energy capacities, with wind and solar power plants continuing to lead the growth. According to data from relevant international institutions, the share of clean energy in total global electricity production has reached a new record.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) announced that the total installed renewable energy capacity has reached 5 terawatts, with 692 GW of new capacity added in the past year alone. The dynamic increase in capacity clearly shows that the energy transition is accelerating and that renewables are taking an increasingly significant place in global electricity production.
The day itself was established in response to the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986, one of the most severe ecological incidents in history. This year marks 40 years since that event, further reminding us of the importance of developing safe and sustainable energy sources.
Renewable energy is also recording significant growth in Serbia. Wind power plants currently contribute 824 MW. The current hydropower capacity in Serbia amounts to 2,508.5 MW. In addition to these hydropower plants, there are also two reversible hydropower plants with a total capacity of 639 MW.
Solar power plants are becoming increasingly present, with a total installed capacity of more than 215 MW, while progress is also evident among prosumers, whose capacity exceeds 136 MW, representing a 45% increase compared to the same period last year. Biomass and biogas capacities still have a smaller share in the overall energy picture, with about 51 MW from biogas plants and one biomass plant with a capacity of 2.4 MW.
The RES SERBIA 2026 Conference, scheduled for September 15 & 16, comes at a time of intense sector development and will be an important gathering point for experts, investors, and representatives of companies and institutions. The event will enable the exchange of experiences and ideas, as well as an overview of future directions in the energy transition.
With the renewal of the energy system as one of the key priorities, the time ahead calls for recognizing challenges and seizing opportunities that shape the future of the sector. World Renewable Energy Day reminds us that the transition to clean energy is a shared responsibility of all actors, from the local to the global level.
