Ember Global Electricity Review 2026: Renewables Outpace Coal for the First Time

The Great Shift: Clean Energy Halts Fossil Fuel Growth

The Ember Global Electricity Review 2026 reveals a historic turning point in the world's energy landscape. For the first time in over a century, renewable energy's share (33.8%) has surpassed that of coal (33.0%) in the global electricity mix during 2025.

Global Trends and Solar Dominance

• Solar Boom: Solar power generation grew by 636 TWh to reach 2,778 TWh, meeting a staggering 75% of the world's total electricity demand growth in 2025.

• Fossil Fuel Decline: Fossil fuel generation saw its first sustained decline of 38 TWh, primarily driven by massive clean energy shifts in China and India.

India’s Remarkable Transition

• RE Growth: India’s renewable energy generation increased by 98 TWh in 2025, with solar contributing 53 TWh and wind adding 22 TWh.

• Coal Reduction: While India's electricity demand rose by 49 TWh, its coal-based generation actually declined by 44 TWh, offset by the rapid deployment of solar and wind infrastructure.

• Fossil Fuel Drop: Total fossil fuel generation in India dropped by 52 TWh, placing the country among the global leaders in the green energy transition.

For TNPSC and Geography aspirants, this review is essential for the "Energy Resources" and "Environment" modules, showcasing India's decoupling of economic growth from carbon emissions.