A new analysis from think-tank Ember indicates that clean energy sources generated over 40% of the world's electricity in 2024—marking the first time this achievement has occurred since the 1940s. However, despite this progress, carbon dioxide emissions have surged to unprecedented levels largely driven by increased demand for power due to hotter weather conditions.
Clean Energy Records: 40% of Global Electricity in 2024, Yet Emissions Surge
Clean Energy Records: 40% of Global Electricity in 2024, Yet Emissions Surge
Global energy reports reveal a significant milestone in electricity generation, yet rising emissions raise concerns.
In 2024, renewable electricity generation reached 40.9%, indicating a marked shift towards cleaner energy. The growth was especially notable in solar energy, which has seen its output double every three years since 2012, driven mainly by advancements in China. Despite this promising trend, the total demand for electricity rose by 4% globally, fueled by extreme temperatures leading to higher usage of air conditioning systems. Consequently, fossil fuel consumption also increased, primarily from coal and gas, which resulted in global CO2 emissions hitting an all-time high of 14.6 billion tonnes.
Phil Macdonald, managing director of Ember, underscored the critical role of solar power in this energy transition, referring to it as the "engine" driving change, while emphasizing that the rise in emissions due to fossil fuel reliance poses a significant challenge.
While clean energy, including solar, wind, and hydropower, is witnessing unprecedented growth, it remains clear that the pace of rising electricity demand continues to outstrip advancements in renewable sources. As countries like India and China ramp up energy production to meet consumption needs, competitive renewable energy development remains a crucial goal. Meanwhile, as global temperatures rise, the urgency for a balanced approach towards clean energy along with sustainable fossil fuel use becomes more pronounced.
Phil Macdonald, managing director of Ember, underscored the critical role of solar power in this energy transition, referring to it as the "engine" driving change, while emphasizing that the rise in emissions due to fossil fuel reliance poses a significant challenge.
While clean energy, including solar, wind, and hydropower, is witnessing unprecedented growth, it remains clear that the pace of rising electricity demand continues to outstrip advancements in renewable sources. As countries like India and China ramp up energy production to meet consumption needs, competitive renewable energy development remains a crucial goal. Meanwhile, as global temperatures rise, the urgency for a balanced approach towards clean energy along with sustainable fossil fuel use becomes more pronounced.
