The past two decades have seen renewables shift from an emerging trend to a legitimate alternative to fossil fuels. Driven by the ongoing energy crisis and by deteriorating climate conditions, the need to ensure a clean, stable and affordable energy supply has reshuffled the deck to one that now favours renewables. However, the energy transition is not happening at the rate required to meet energy needs and to prevent the planet from slipping deeper into climate crisis. In 2022, a growing number of people worldwide were without access to needed energy services, underscoring the gaps among countries and regions and exposing the vulnerability of the current energy system globally. Despite undeniable growth in the use of renewables for power generation, other critical energy carriers such as renewable heat and renewable-based fuels remain neglected. Similarly, renewables are still facing significant barriers as they are unable to compete fairly against heavily subsidised fossil fuels. For the first time, REN21's Renewables Global Status Report (GSR 2023) is being published as a collection of five modules, reflecting the fundamental changes in the global energy landscape. The Global Overview module explores the key topics of energy demand, energy supply, energy systems and infrastructure, as well as the socio-economic value creation of renewables, including contributions to GDP growth, employment, and access to clean cooking and electricity. The module takes stock of the current renewable energy landscape and outlines the wide range of bottlenecks that hinder the transition towards a renewables-based economy and society. Today, the transition to renewable energy is more than a climate imperative; it is an economic and social opportunity to shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for all. I want to thank the REN21 team, authors, special advisors and contributors who have participated to this edition of the GSR. Their knowledge, passion and commitment have been instrumental in making the modular GSR 2023 collection a reality. I am confident that across its five modules, the GSR will continue to serve as a valuable resource for policy makers, industry leaders and other stakeholders to inform effective decision making and drive the rapid transition to a future fuelled by renewable energy. Sincerely, Rana Adib Executive Director, REN21