- Renewables supplied over 30 per cent of global electricity in 2023, up from 19 per cent in 2000.
- Solar and wind power accounted for a record 13.4 per cent of global electricity in 2023, up from 0.2 per cent in 2000.
A recent Ember report reveals that renewables supplied over 30 per cent of global electricity in 2023, up from 19 per cent in 2000. Solar and wind soared to 13.4 per cent in 2023 from just 0.2 per cent in 2000.
Low-carbon sources, including nuclear, accounted for nearly 40 per cent of global electricity. Power generation’s CO2 intensity hit a new low, but due to the decline in hydropower, coal use increased global power sector emissions by 1 per cent.
Global electricity demand increased by 2.2 per cent in 2023, totalling 627 TWh. Projections for 2024 anticipate a demand growth of 968 TWh, while clean generation is expected to reach 1,300 TWh. This will result in a 2 per cent decline in global fossil generation, equivalent to 333 TWh.
Dave Jones, Global Insights Programme Director at Ember, declared, “The renewables future has arrived. Solar is accelerating faster than expected.” According to Jones, the year 2023 was a pivotal moment, potentially marking peak emissions in the power sector—a significant turning point in energy history. However, the pace of emission reductions relies on continuing the renewables revolution.