Clean Energy Powered 40% of Global Electricity in 2024, Report Finds
A recent report from the energy thinktank Ember reveals that clean energy sources powered over 40% of the world’s electricity demand in 2024, marking a significant milestone the first since the 1940s. This surge is primarily attributed to the doubling of solar power capacity within three years, establishing solar as the fastest-growing energy source for the past two decades.
According to Phil MacDonald, Ember’s managing director, solar power, particularly when combined with battery storage, is poised to drive the global energy transition by catering to the rising electricity demand. Despite its rapid growth, solar energy constituted around 7% of global electricity supply, with wind power slightly surpassing at just over 8%. However, hydro power remains the largest contributor at 14%.
Key Points
- Clean energy sources accounted for over 40% of global electricity demand in 2024.
- This milestone was largely driven by a rapid increase in solar power capacity, which has doubled in three years.
- Solar power is now the fastest-growing source of energy globally, experiencing growth for 20 consecutive years.
- While solar and wind are expanding, they still remain relatively small compared to hydropower, which constituted 14% of electricity in 2024.
- Ember’s report underscores the critical role of solar and battery storage in meeting increasing energy demands.
Why should I read this?
This article is critical for understanding the current shifts in the global energy landscape and the pivotal role of renewable energy, particularly solar power, in addressing climate change and energy demands. It highlights advancements in technology while signalling to stakeholders and policymakers the importance of supporting and investing in clean energy solutions.
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