Solar Power Gains Global Significance

The contribution of solar energy to global electricity production continues to rise, according to a recent analysis by the think tank Ember. The share of solar power in worldwide electricity generation increased from 5.6% in 2023 to 6.9% in 2024. This marks the doubling of solar energy output in just three years, with global production surpassing 2,100 terawatt-hours in 2024.

China emerged as a significant player in this growth, accounting for over half of the global increase in solar energy, with 250 terawatt-hours generated. Phil MacDonald, the CEO of Ember, emphasized the pivotal role of solar energy in the global energy transition. He noted that when combined with battery storage, solar power is becoming an unstoppable force in meeting the rising demand for electricity.

In addition to solar energy, wind power also saw an increase, raising its share of global electricity generation to 8.1%. Hydropower remains the largest single renewable energy source, contributing 14.3%. Other renewable sources accounted for 2.6% of the total share.

Despite the growth of renewable energy, coal continues to dominate electricity production, representing 34.4% of the total in 2024. Natural gas contributed 22%, while other fossil fuels accounted for 2.8%. Nuclear energy provided 9% of the electricity supply.

Ember presented its annual report titled 'Global Electricity Review' for the sixth time, analyzing data from 88 countries that collectively meet about 93% of the global electricity demand. This comprehensive analysis highlights the ongoing transition towards renewable energy sources and the critical role they play in addressing the increasing global energy needs.