Solar and wind energy together generated more electricity worldwide than coal in the first half of 2025, marking a historic turning point, according to new analysis by Ember. Renewables produced an estimated 5,072 TWh globally, compared with coal’s 4,896 TWh. Solar output surged by 31%—adding more than 300 TWh—while wind generation rose nearly 8%, driven by rapid expansion in major markets.
Much of this momentum came from China and India, where clean-energy growth outpaced rising demand. China saw solar generation jump 43% and wind rise 16%, contributing to a slight drop in fossil-fuel output. India recorded similar gains, with wind and solar rising 29% and 31%, reducing dependence on coal and gas by just over 3%. Overall global electricity use grew by 2.6%, yet renewable energy met the entire rise—underscoring its capacity to keep up with the world’s increasing power needs. More