Report shows growing momentum for renewable energy in NDC 3.0 submissions

A new report by 350.org, produced in collaboration with Zero Carbon Analytics, finds that 15 of the 19 countries that have submitted updated national climate plans, or Nationally Determined Contributions,  are increasing their renewable energy ambition ahead of 2035.

The report shows that 15 countries included specific targets or outlined clear ambitions to expand renewable energy in their new national climate plans. Seven countries have either introduced new renewable energy targets or strengthened existing ones, signaling growing commitment to the clean energy transition. Additionally, over 80% of countries with new plans have pledged support for the COP28 goal of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030. The analysis is based on submissions as of March 10, 2025.

Andreas Sieber, Associate Director of Policy and Campaigns at 350.org. “The latest climate plan submissions reveal that countries are stepping up on renewables – beneath shifting political winds the trajectory is clear and more positive than many might have expected. The momentum for renewables continues and is building. But we need more. With the world facing devastating climate impacts and rising energy prices from fossil fuels, we can’t afford half-measures. Countries must now back their renewable energy pledges with robust policies, and the European Union, China, and others yet to submit their targets must hearness this momentum.”

Victoria Kalyvas, Research Associate at Zero Carbon Analytics and lead analyst of the brief.

“An initial analysis of national climate plans shows that an increasing number of countries see renewables as a fundamental part of their energy future, with a few emerging as leaders in the rapidly accelerating clean energy transition. The momentum behind renewables—including commitments to COP28 goals—reflects recognition of the economic, security, and affordability benefits of renewable energy sources.”

Key findings from the report show that:

Growing Renewable Ambition:  15 of the 19 NDC 3.0 submissions include quantitative renewable energy targets or outline ambition for expansion.

Seven countries introduced higher or new renewable energy targets compared to their previous NDCs.

Countries Leading the Way:

The UK has pledged that at least 95% of Great Britain’s electricity will come from onshore wind, solar, offshore wind, and nuclear by 2030.

The UAE aims to increase its renewable energy capacity by more than 500%, from 3.7 GW to 19.8 GW by 2030.

The USA has set a goal of 100% clean electricity by 2035, including renewables and nuclear.

The Marshall Islands aims to reach a 66% renewable energy share by 2030, with a long-term goal of achieving net-zero energy systems by 2050.

Countries Surpassing Targets:

Brazil has already exceeded its 2030 target, generating 89% of its electricity from renewables in 2023 – well above its previous goal of 84%.

Several countries, including Japan, the UK, and Switzerland, are deploying renewable energy faster than necessary to meet their 2030 targets.

High Achievers:

Of the 19 countries analyzed, seven already have ambitious targets of achieving over 90% renewable electricity by 2030 or 2035.

While the report highlights growing ambition, ambition alone is not enough. Countries must translate their targets into concrete action, including rapid policy implementation, significant public and private investment, and clear accountability measures.

Andreas Sieber, Associate Director of Policy and Campaigns at 350.org. “Tripling renewable energy by 2030 is not just a goal—it’s a necessity. We can’t allow these pledges to be empty promises. Governments must deliver real action that puts people and the planet first, not the profits of fossil fuel giants.”Countries that have yet to submit their updated national climate plans to the UN must do so by September. This deadline is critical for ensuring their commitments are factored into the final assessment of whether the world is on track to meet its climate goals, as nations set new emissions reduction targets for 2035.