In brief
Although clean energy's contribution to global electricity generation has reached 40%, fossil fuel use continues to rise, driven by increased electricity demand and extreme weather conditions. Solar power leads growth, especially in China and India, yet global carbon emissions are still on the rise.
In a groundbreaking report, think-tank Ember reveals that clean energy sources have now accounted for more than 40% of global electricity generation for the first time since the 1940s. This notable rise is largely fueled by the rapid expansion of solar energy, which has doubled its output every three years since 2012, making it the fastest-growing energy source. However, emissions of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide have hit record levels, reflecting a concerning trend. Extreme weather has fueled demand for cooling systems, causing a spike in fossil fuel use, particularly coal and gas. With global electricity demand increasing by 4% in 2024, fossil fuel usage rose by 1.4%. Notably, China claims more than half of the world's solar growth, while India also saw its solar capacity double between 2023 and 2024. The global average for clean energy remains low, with solar contributing about 7%, wind at 8%, and hydropower providing 14%. Despite the impressive rise in renewable energy, the overall pace of power demand still outstrips new clean energy development, leading to a continued rise in emissions. Ember predicts that while 2025 may not mirror the increase in fossil fuel generation, the urgent need for sustainable solutions remains.
