A recent report by the energy thinktank Ember has shown that the world generated almost a third more solar power in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 – largely driven by massive expansions in China and India.   

Combined with steady wind growth, solar and wind power together met 83 per cent of the global increase in electricity demand, resulting in a small but significant decline in coal and gas use. 

Guardian graphic (Source: Ember)

In Australia, renewables also surpassed coal for the first time in electricity generation as September data showed Australian solar, wind, hydro and biomass energy produces 9.24 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity, outpacing the 8.8 TWh from coal.  

According to Ember, this record was driven by strong wind output from Tasmania and strong solar generation across the country. These developments point to a maturing renewable sector that is not only growing fast but increasingly resilient and capable of meeting energy needs year-round. 

The International Energy Agency (IEA) said China would remain the world’s biggest contributor to the global renewable growth, with India emerging as the second largest over the rest of the decade. In fact, both countries saw a decline in fossil fuel use as renewables rapidly scaled, with India’s coal and gas use falling 3.1 per cent and 34 per cent respectively. 

“Solar and wind are now growing fast enough to meet the world’s growing appetite for electricity. This marks the beginning of a shift where clean power is keeping pace with demand growth,” said Małgorzata Wiatros-Motyka, senior electricity analyst at Ember. 

With renewable capacity expected to more than double by 2030 and solar alone contributing 80 per cent of new capacity according to IEA, the energy future is looking greener than ever. 

In Australia, there are government subsidies, rebates and loan options for rooftop solar or batteries for your home and business. Explore options that might be available in your state or territory. 

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