Wind and Solar Power Exceed 30% of Global Electricity

Renewable energy sources, predominantly wind, and solar power surpassed 30% of global electricity production for the first time last year, marking a critical milestone in the transition away from fossil fuels, according to recent findings.

A report by Ember, a climate think tank, indicates that renewables have grown steadily from 19% of global electricity in 2000 to over 30% in 2023. Solar power, in particular, has experienced remarkable acceleration, outpacing coal in new electricity generation by more than double in 2023.

This surge in clean electricity is projected to lead to a 2% reduction in global fossil fuel generation in the coming year. Dave Jones, Director of Global Insights at Ember, asserts that this decline in power sector emissions is now inevitable, signaling a pivotal moment in the energy landscape. However, the pace of emissions reduction hinges on the continued expansion of the renewables revolution.

While the power sector is experiencing a shift away from fossil fuels, it still dominates other sectors like transport fuels, heavy industry, and heating. According to the Energy Institute, fossil fuels comprised 82% of the world's primary energy last year.

In light of these trends, world leaders have set ambitious targets to increase renewables' share to 60% of global electricity by 2030, aiming to nearly halve power sector emissions.

This goal necessitates a tripling of current renewable electricity capacity within the next six years, emphasizing the urgency and scale of the transition towards sustainable energy sources.