Wind and solar’s share of global electricity mix doubled in last five years—study.

Wind and solar energy doubled its share of the global power mix over the last five years, moving the world closer to a path that would limit the worst effects of global warming. The sources of renewable energy made up nearly 10% of power in most parts of the world in the first half of this year, according to analysis from U.K. environmental group Ember.

That decarbonization of the power grid was boosted this year as shutdowns to contain the coronavirus reduced demand overall, leaving renewables to pick up the slack.

Ember analyzed generation in 48 countries that represent 83% of global electricity. The data showed wind and solar power increased 14% in the first half of 2020 compared with the same period last year while global demand fell 3% because of the impact of the coronavirus.

At the same time that wind turbines and solar panels have proliferated, coal’s share of the mix has fallen around the world. In some places, mainly western European countries, coal has been all but eliminated from electricity generation.

China relied on the dirtiest fossil fuel for 68% of its power five years ago. That share dipped to 62% this year and renewables made up 10% of all electricity generated.

As a switch to renewables and gas has dramatically reduced coal generation in Europe and the U.S., China is left with a growing share of the fossil fuel. While it leads the world in new renewable power installations as well as building hydro dams and nuclear plants, the country still relies on coal for most of its growing power needs. China now makes up about 54% of the world’s coal power generation, up from 44% in 2015, according to Ember.

13 August 2020

IEEFA