What Happened: Clean Energy in the Spotlight
Clean energy was the largest source of new energy in 2025, according to the latest statistical review by the Energy Institute on world energy. This was the first year, outside of the Covid-19 pandemic period, in which the combination of wind and solar energy contributed more to energy supply than any individual fossil fuel.
The findings highlight the growing importance of electricity in the global energy system, with electricity demand increasing more rapidly than energy use in general. Moreover, all new energy supply came from low-carbon sources.
Why It Matters: Stakes and Real Impacts
Transitioning to cleaner energy sources is crucial for mitigating climate change and improving air quality. Clean energy, including solar and wind, offers a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.
The large-scale adoption of renewable energy can have significant implications for the economy, public health, and the environment. Furthermore, the electrification of sectors such as industry, transport, and heating can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Mechanism/Science Behind the Phenomenon: Understanding Energy Efficiency
The efficiency with which different energy sources are converted into useful energy services varies significantly. While fossil fuels lose about two-thirds of their energy as residual heat during combustion, renewable energy sources like solar and wind can be converted into electricity with much higher efficiency.
This means that less clean energy is needed to do the same work as fossil energy, which can lead to a reduction in primary energy demand as the energy system becomes more electrified and renewable energy sources increase their share.
Bigger Picture: Trends and Research
Data shows that while fossil fuels still dominate global energy supply, the share of clean energy sources is growing rapidly. Wind and solar energy, in particular, have experienced high growth rates, with an 18% increase in 2025.
Countries like China are leading this transition, with ambitious targets to increase the share of electricity in final energy supply. The adoption of policies supporting renewable energy and energy efficiency can accelerate this trend worldwide.
What's Next: Implications and Open Questions
As the world continues to move towards a low-carbon economy, it is essential to monitor progress in implementing renewable energy sources and electrifying different sectors. International cooperation and the sharing of technologies and experiences will be fundamental to achieving global emission reduction targets.
Moreover, managing energy demand, especially in sectors like data centers that consume large amounts of electricity, will be crucial for ensuring a smooth and efficient transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy system.
Source / Reference
This article was based on information available at https://www.carbonbrief.org/six-charts-show-how-clean-power-was-worlds-largest-source-of-new-energy-in-2025, published by Carbon Brief.