Renewables Surpass Coal as Leading Global Electricity Source
Renewable energy has officially surpassed coal as the leading source of electricity globally. This historic milestone occurred during the first half of 2024, driven by robust demand for clean energy. The findings were released by Ember, a prominent global energy think tank.
Global Electricity Demand and Renewable Energy Growth
As electricity consumption rises worldwide, renewable sources of energy, particularly solar and wind, have managed to meet 100% of the increased demand. This achievement has contributed to a slight decrease in the use of coal and gas.
Mixed Regional Outcomes
However, the data presents a complex picture. While developing countries, notably China, have embraced the clean energy transition, wealthier nations like the United States and European Union have seen a growing dependence on fossil fuels for electricity generation.
Coal’s Continued Dominance
Despite the rise of renewables, coal remains a major source of energy. As of 2024, it continues to be the largest individual energy resource globally, a position it has maintained for over 50 years, as per the International Energy Agency.
China’s Leadership in Clean Energy
China leads the world in the expansion of clean energy, outpacing the rest of the globe in the installation of solar and wind capacity. This surge has allowed the nation to curtail fossil fuel generation by 2%, even as electricity demand continues to rise. Conversely, India has also managed to slow down its fossil fuel usage thanks to significant investments in solar and wind energy.
Developed Nations’ Challenges
In contrast, electricity demands in developed countries like the US and EU have escalated faster than the growth of clean energy outputs, leading to greater reliance on fossil resources. The EU, in particular, experienced increased coal and gas generation due to unfavorable conditions for wind and hydropower.
Solar Power’s Dominance
Solar energy has been the main driver in this transition, accounting for 83% of the increase in global electricity demand. For three consecutive years, solar power has emerged as the largest source of new electricity generation.
Notably, lower-income countries have benefited greatly, with 58% of global solar output originating from these regions. The sharp decline in solar power costs, which have dropped by 99.9% since 1975, has facilitated significant market advancements in countries with expensive and unreliable electricity systems.
- Pakistan has made remarkable strides, importing solar panels capable of generating 17 GW in 2024.
- Africa has seen a 60% year-on-year increase in solar panel imports, with South Africa and Nigeria at the forefront.
- Smaller African nations report explosive growth as well, with Algeria increasing imports by 33 times and Zambia eight times.
Potential Challenges Ahead
The rapid expansion of solar energy brings challenges. For instance, in Afghanistan, the widespread adoption of solar-powered pumps threatens groundwater supplies, risking the livelihoods of millions.
Regional Energy Strategies
Different regions are facing unique energy hurdles. Countries in the “sun belt” can reduce costs through solar energy, supported by affordable battery technology. In contrast, “wind belt” nations like the UK encounter higher installation costs and supply challenges caused by inconsistent wind patterns.
China’s Clean Tech Dominance
China’s supremacy in clean technology remains unmatched. In August 2025, its exports of clean technology reached $20 billion, driven primarily by a surge in electric vehicle and battery sales.
With this momentum, China’s energy landscape indicates a significant shift toward sustainability, leaving many other nations trailing in the transition to renewable energy.
