Global Solar Energy Doubles in Three Years, Leading Renewable Growth
Despite record solar expansion, rising electricity demand pushed global CO2 emissions up by 1.6% in 2024, highlighting the challenges of decarbonization.
- Solar energy production surpassed 2,100 TWh in 2024, doubling output since 2021 and solidifying its role as the fastest-growing renewable energy source.
- China led global solar growth with a 250 TWh increase in 2024, accounting for more than half of the worldwide expansion.
- Renewable energy sources provided over 32% of global electricity in 2024, yet fossil fuels still accounted for 59% of the energy mix, with coal remaining dominant at 34.4%.
- Global electricity demand rose by 1,172 TWh in 2024, driven by extreme weather, increased use of air conditioning, and expanding digital infrastructure like AI data centers.
- CO2 emissions from global electricity production reached a record 14.6 billion tons in 2024, underscoring the ongoing challenge of meeting rising energy needs while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
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