Solar and Wind Power Surpass Global Electricity Demand Growth

For the first time on record, solar and wind power combined generated more electricity than coal globally in the first half of 2025, signaling a potential turning point in the world’s energy mix.

Global electricity demand increased by 2.6% – an additional 369 terawatt-hours (TWh) – compared to the same period last year, but renewable sources met a remarkable 83% of that growth, increasing by 306 TWh. This surge in clean energy led to a 0.6% decrease in coal generation and a 0.2% drop in gas production, resulting in a 0.2% reduction in overall power sector emissions. This shift is particularly significant as the world strives to meet climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement.

“We’re seeing the first signs of a crucial turning point,” said Małgorzata Wiatros-Motyka, senior electricity analyst at Ember. “Solar and wind are now growing fast enough to meet the world’s growing appetite for electricity.” Solar led the charge, with a 31% year-over-year increase, while overall renewables supplied 5,072 TWh of electricity, exceeding coal’s 4,896 TWh. The United States is seeing rapid growth in renewable energy, with recent data showing solar and wind making up 90% of new power generating capacity through July of this year.

While progress isn’t uniform, with fossil generation rising in the US and EU due to demand outpacing renewable growth and weaker wind/hydro performance respectively, China and India are leading the way in clean energy adoption. Experts say continued investment in solar, wind, and battery storage is crucial to solidify this trend and ensure affordable, reliable power for all. For more information on the global energy transition, visit the International Energy Agency.

Analysts at Ember expect clean power to continue outpacing demand growth, driving fossil fuels into decline, but emphasize the need to accelerate deployment of renewable technologies.