Data in the Global Integrated Power Tracker show the Mediterranean has an estimated 552.0 gigawatts (GW) of utility-scale solar and wind capacity announced or actively under development at an estimated cost of USD 792 billion. This prospective capacity is greater than the U.S.’ entire planned capacity across all generation types, which stands at 548.3 GW.
Nearly two thirds of the Mediterranean’s prospective capacity (361.3 GW) targets a commercial operational date by 2030, which if realised would grow the region’s operating wind and solar fleet 43 per cent from 251.6 GW, about one-third of the region’s current power mix.
While the amount of capacity under development is not enough to meet regional clean energy targets, governments have rolled out ambitious policies, programs, and strategies in their energy transitions.
In particular, Spain and Egypt provide unique case studies on both sides of the Mediterranean in their approaches to their energy transitions.
Spain has established itself as a leader in Europe’s renewable transition, ranking first in prospective utility-scale solar with 108.8 GW and third in prospective wind with 56.5 GW. Spain's renewable boom is providing tangible benefits for consumers, saving the average household about EUR 10 every month on electricity bills.
Egypt is emerging as a leader in the Southwest Asia and North Africa subregion, boasting nearly 100 GW of prospective wind and utility-scale solar in development. Industrial decarbonization heavily influences this development, with 37.7 GW of in-development renewable capacity tied directly to green hydrogen applications.
Hailey Deres, Senior Researcher at Global Energy Monitor, said, “Countries across the Mediterranean are not starting from scratch in the energy transition. COP31 offers a chance to showcase the incredible progress that has been achieved so far and as well an opportunity to build on that groundwork. Overcoming barriers like grid infrastructure, investment needs and permitting will ultimately determine how much of planned renewable capacity gets built.”
