For the first time in history, renewable energy sources have outpaced coal in global electricity generation. A report from the energy think tank Ember reveals that renewable energy accounted for 34.3% of the world’s electricity consumption in the first half of 2025, surpassing coal’s 33.1% share.
Shifts in Energy Sources
This milestone highlights a significant transition away from fossil fuels toward cleaner alternatives like solar, wind, and hydro power. Developing nations, particularly China and India, spearheaded this shift. Despite this progress, coal consumption increased in Western countries, including the European Union and the United States.
Decline in Coal Generation
- Global coal generation decreased by 0.6% compared to the same timeframe in 2024.
- Developing countries such as Hungary, Pakistan, and Australia set records by generating over 20% of their electricity from solar energy.
The Role of China in Renewable Energy
China was the primary driver of the growth in renewable energy, responsible for 55% of global advancements in solar generation. The United States contributed only 14%. This divide reveals differing strategies in energy investments among nations.
Malgorzata Wiatros-Motyka, a senior analyst at Ember, noted that China’s strategic reductions in fossil fuel dependency enhance national energy autonomy. Emerging economies are investing significantly in renewable infrastructure, while advanced nations may be missing out on similar opportunities.
Environmental Impact and Future Prospects
The report also indicates a slight decline in global carbon dioxide emissions during the first half of the year. This reduction aligns with increased use of solar and wind energy that outpaced demand growth, contributing to a decrease in fossil fuel utilization.
Challenges Ahead
Despite these advancements, experts like Daniel Cohan from Rice University warn that demand for electricity is rising by approximately 3% annually. This growth, driven by data centers and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, poses challenges for the growing renewable sector.
Most new power plants are integrating wind, solar, and battery technology. However, there is concern about whether these systems can keep pace with increasing demand.
Infrastructure Investment
- China has succeeded in lowering the costs of solar energy through continuous innovation.
- The price of solar panels has dropped over 90%, largely due to Chinese manufacturing advancements.
Cohan asserts that the future of clean energy looks promising. He points out that wind and solar generation is not only meeting rising demand but exceeding it, signaling a potential decline in fossil fuel reliance. Such a turning point could lead to broader environmental protection efforts globally.
