Renewable Energy Surpasses Coal in Electricity Generation for First Time, Report Reveals
For the first time in history, renewable energy has surpassed coal as the primary source of global electricity generation, according to a new report from energy think tank Ember. Renewable electricity use rose to 34.3% of global consumption in the first half of 2025, while coal's use fell to 33.1%, marking a significant shift in the global reliance on environmentally harmful fossil fuels.
The report highlights that this historic milestone is largely driven by populous developing countries like China and India, which have rapidly expanded their use of solar, wind, and hydro power. In contrast, Western societies such as the European Union and the US have seen an increase in coal consumption during this period, highlighting a stark contrast in global energy trends.
According to Ember's report, renewable energies include sources like solar, wind, and hydro, which have become increasingly cost-competitive with fossil fuels. "The shift towards renewables is not just about reducing carbon emissions; it's also about creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and improving public health," said Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA).
The report notes that renewable energy growth has been driven by declining costs, technological advancements, and government policies supporting clean energy development. In particular, China and India have invested heavily in solar and wind power, with their combined installed capacity increasing by over 50% in just two years.
While the shift towards renewables is a significant achievement, experts caution that there is still much work to be done. "We need to accelerate the transition to renewable energy and phase out coal-fired power plants as soon as possible," said Dr. Birol. "The good news is that we have the technology and the policies in place; now it's time for governments and businesses to take action."
The report also highlights the importance of international cooperation in promoting a low-carbon economy. "We need to work together to share knowledge, technologies, and best practices to accelerate the transition to renewable energy," said Dr. Birol.
As the world continues to grapple with climate change, the shift towards renewable energy is a crucial step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating its impacts. According to Ember's report, the global electricity sector accounts for around 25% of total carbon dioxide emissions, making it a critical area for decarbonization efforts.
The IEA estimates that achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 will require significant investments in renewable energy infrastructure, including solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric power plants. With the cost of renewable energy continuing to decline, experts predict that the shift towards renewables will only continue to accelerate in the coming years.
In conclusion, the report from Ember marks a significant milestone in the global transition to renewable energy. As the world continues to grapple with climate change, it is clear that the shift towards clean energy is not just a moral imperative but also an economic and environmental necessity.
This story was compiled from reports by NPR Politics and BREAKING: NPR News.
