Erbil:The expansion of renewable energy is now primarily driven by energy security rather than environmental concerns, according to International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director Fatih Birol, as reported by APA-Economics.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, Birol stated that while environmental concerns previously held the top priority in renewable energy development, the declining costs of these technologies have made them competitive. The focus has shifted as countries increasingly aim to reduce reliance on imported fuels, making energy security the main driver of renewable energy expansion.

Birol also noted that the current phase of renewable energy development is global in scope, extending beyond major markets to all regions worldwide. This transition positions renewable energy as a crucial component of the global electricity sector.

At present, one-third of global electricity generation is derived from renewable sources, and this share is expected to grow to nearly half within the next five years, Birol emphasized.