Renewables overtake coal as world's biggest source of electricity

Published: 10/7/2025
Renewables overtake coal as world's biggest source of electricity
Renewable energy, including solar and wind power, has surpassed coal to become the leading source of electricity globally in 2024, states a report from the global energy think tank Ember. Solar energy, in particular, has seen a significant surge, meeting 83% of the rise in electricity demand. Developing countries like China have driven this clean energy shift, while developed nations like the US and EU have continued to rely on fossil fuels. The reduction in solar costs has led to remarkable growth in solar capacity in lower-income countries, with solar being the largest source of new electricity globally for three consecutive years.