13 May 2009: The International Energy Agency (IEA) has contributed to the “REN21 Renewables Global Status Report,” which was released on 13 May 2009.

The fourth edition of REN21’s renewable energy report highlights that global power capacity from new renewable energy sources (excluding large hydro) increased by 16% since 2007, solar heating capacity increased by 15%, and biodiesel and ethanol production both increased by 34%.
Mohamed El-Ashry, Chair of REN21, indicated that the recent growth of the sector was due to more favorable policies amidst increasing concerns about climate change and energy security. He added that at least 73 countries have renewable energy policy targets and that several governments have directed economic stimulus funding towards new green jobs in the renewable energy sector. [The Report] [REN21 Press Release]