Back to OurEnergyLibrary search




Renewables Soar, but Fossil Fuels Continue to Rise as Global Electricity Demand Hits Record Levels

Renewables Soar, but Fossil Fuels Continue to Rise as Global Electricity Demand Hits Record Levels

Full Title: Renewables Soar, but Fossil Fuels Continue to Rise as Global Electricity Demand Hits Record Levels
Author(s): Energy Institute
Publisher(s): Kearney, KPMG, Energy Institute
Publication Date: June 26, 2025
Full Text: Download Resource
Description (excerpt):

Wind and solar combined grew by 16%, reinforcing their role as the fastest growing areas of the energy system. China was responsible for 57% of new additions with solar almost doubling in just two years. Wind and solar grew nearly nine times faster than total energy demand, and fossil fuels also grew (just over 1%) in 2024. The world saw a 2% annual rise in total energy demand, reaching a new high of 592 EJ. All-time records were reached across ALL forms of energy (coal, oil, gas, renewables, hydro and nuclear). At 4%, electricity demand growth continued to outpace total energy demand growth, an indicator that the age of electricity is not just emerging but is shaping a new global energy system.

All statements and/or propositions in discussion prompts are meant exclusively to stimulate discussion and do not represent the views of OurEnergyPolicy.org, its Partners, Topic Directors or Experts, nor of any individual or organization. Comments by and opinions of Expert participants are their own.