Renewables Surpass Coal as World's Largest Electricity Source
In a significant shift, renewable energy has surpassed coal as the world's largest source of electricity generation for the first time in the first half of 2025. Renewables supplied 5,072 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity, outpacing coal's 4,896 TWh. This milestone comes as global power demand rose by 2.6%, driven by surging installations in China and India.
Solar power was the primary force behind this renewable expansion, meeting 83% of the increase in global electricity demand. China's solar output expanded by a notable 43%, while wind generation grew by 16%. These increases helped reduce fossil fuel generation by 2% in China. Meanwhile, India's solar and wind generation grew by 31% and 29% respectively, cutting its coal and gas reliance by 3.1%. Wind contributed another 97 TWh, offsetting fossil generation growth in most emerging economies.
China and India accounted for the majority of global renewable capacity additions, counterbalancing increases in fossil-fuel generation in the United States and European Union.
The crossover between renewables and coal signals both opportunity and urgency for policymakers and investors to maintain momentum in renewable deployment. This trend confirms renewables' dominance as a long-term asset class, with significant implications for utilities, miners, and sovereign climate strategies.
Read also:
- Thieves Steal Unique Sculptures from Redwood National Park's Grove of Titans
- Thessaly's Climate Plan Stalls Two Years After Storm Daniel Devastation
- Republicans advocate Trump's domestic policy plans in Iowa, though some business owners remain skeptic
- Typhoon Matmo Batters Vietnam, PM Urges Vigilance as Heavy Rain Continues
