Renewable Energy Surpasses Global Electricity Demand in 2025

In a historic milestone for the energy industry, renewable energy sources eclipsed global electricity demand growth in 2025. A report released by Ember indicates that, for the first time in modern energy history, clean energy generation kept pace with and exceeded overall electricity demand.

The findings showed that renewable power generation surged by 887 terawatt hours (TWh), outstripping the growth in global electricity demand, which was 849 TWh. This remarkable surge is primarily attributed to the rapid advancement of solar energy in countries like China and India.

Renewables—comprising solar, wind, and hydropower—now account for over one-third of global electricity generation, hitting an all-time high of 33.8%. Meanwhile, the contribution from coal has fallen below a third, reflecting a slow but significant shift away from fossil fuels.

Solar energy was pivotal in this transformation, witnessing a growth rate of 30% in 2025, fulfilling nearly 75% of the additional electricity demand. In synergy with wind energy, renewables met virtually all of the increased energy needs for the year.

China emerged as the leader in solar expansion, accounting for over half of the global growth in solar capacity. India also marked substantial advancements in solar and wind energy, alongside enhancements in hydropower output.

Furthermore, the report pointed out a significant progression in battery storage, which saw a 46% increase, thanks to reduced costs. This allows solar power to be harnessed even after sunset, enhancing its efficiency and reliability.

Experts note that this trend indicates a capability for renewable energy to satisfy the rising global demand while simultaneously lessening the dependence on fossil fuels. However, they underline the necessity for ongoing investment and supportive policies to maintain this progress and further curb carbon emissions.