Global Renewable Energy Generation Surpasses Coal for First Time
Wind and solar power covered all electricity demand growth in the first half of 2025, causing a slight drop in fossil fuel generation and marking a crucial turning point in the global energy transition[1]. Renewables’ share of global electricity rose to 34.3% in the first half of the year, while coal fell to 33.1%[4]. China and India largely drove the rise in renewables and met much of the world’s growing appetite for electricity, leading to a drop in fossil fuel generation in both countries, while the US and Europe had to burn more fossil fuels to meet demand[1].
Solar Energy Becomes Cheapest Power Source Worldwide
Solar energy is now the cheapest source of power globally, with costs as low as £0.02 per unit in the sunniest countries, making it cheaper than electricity generated from coal, gas, or wind[3]. The total amount of solar power installed globally passed 1.5 terawatts in 2024, which is twice as much as in 2020 and enough to power hundreds of millions of homes[3]. The price of lithium-ion batteries has fallen by 89% since 2010, making solar-plus-storage systems as cost-effective as gas power plants[3].
Grid Integration Challenges Emerge as Solar Capacity Grows
Connecting large amounts of solar power to existing electricity networks has become one of the biggest challenges facing the renewable energy sector[3]. In some regions like California and China, high solar generation has led to grid congestion and wasted energy when supply exceeds demand[3]. Smart grids, artificial intelligence forecasting, and stronger links between regions will be vital to keep power systems stable as renewable energy use rises[3].
US Renewable Growth Forecast Slashed by Nearly 50%
The International Energy Agency slashed its forecast for renewables