What they do
IRENA is the intergovernmental organization supporting countries in their transition to sustainable energy. They publish the most authoritative global data on renewable energy costs, capacity, and policy. Key publications include the annual Renewable Power Generation Costs report and the World Energy Transitions Outlook. 168 member countries plus the EU.
Why they matter
IRENA's cost data settles arguments. When someone claims renewables are too expensive, IRENA's data shows that 91% of new renewable capacity added in 2024 was cheaper than the cheapest fossil fuel alternative. Solar PV at $0.043/kWh, onshore wind at $0.034/kWh. These are not projections; they are auction results and measured costs from real projects worldwide. IRENA's analysis shows renewables avoided $467 billion in fossil fuel costs in 2024 alone.
How to support
Access their free publications and data at irena.org. Use their cost data in advocacy and policy discussions. For policymakers: use IRENA's renewable readiness assessments for national planning.
Key project to explore
The annual Renewable Power Generation Costs report tracks actual costs from thousands of renewable energy projects worldwide, providing the definitive reference for renewable energy economics.