In a landmark report released recently, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has projected that within three years, renewable energy will become the world’s top source of electricity. According to the data released by the IEA, 90 percent of new demand between now and 2025 will be met through clean energy sources such as wind and solar power generation, as well as nuclear energy. At present, coal provides 10,325 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity per year – 36 percent of total demand. This makes it the world’s number one source of electricity. That said, renewables currently provide 29 percent while gas is at 23 percent and nuclear energy providing 9 percent in terms of annual electricity production. The IEA’s report highlights an interesting shift in these figures for 2025.
Clean energy sources are expected to provide 35 percent while coal takes a dip to 33 percent; gas stands at 21 percent and nuclear energy will contribute 10 percent towards total electricity production by 2025. Although this comes as good news on climate change front with global emissions from power sector plateauing until 2025 before dropping down significantly further, it is yet to be seen if governments around the world are committed enough towards meeting climate goals such as reduction in emissions by 45% by 2030 or not. It is going to be an extremely challenging time ahead given that swift decarbonisation requires investment and dedication from governments across different countries if they have any hope in curbing global warming significantly. In the end, it is going to be the collective efforts from all nations that will make a real difference in fighting climate change and global warming.
The IEA report has also projected two additional scenarios – one with increased investments being made in renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power generation and another with improvement in energy efficiency measures being taken to reduce energy demand. Under the first scenario, renewables would be able to provide for around 50 percent of total electricity production by 2025 while under the second scenario, it would reach as much as 55 percent. This goes on to show just how quickly renewable energy sources are catching up with traditional sources of power generation, and how they could soon become a major source of electricity, if proper measures are taken. It is without doubt that renewable energy sources have grown significantly in the last few years and it looks like they are here to stay. The global shift towards clean energy sources is already underway and with governments around the world taking steps towards reducing emissions by investing in renewables, the trend could soon become irreversible. With this shift also comes a great deal of hope for how we can tackle climate change and global warming effectively, and it looks like renewable energy will be playing an increasingly important role in the years to come.
Jonas Muthoni is an entrepreneur and renewable energy expert. He is the founder of MicroGridMedia.com, a website dedicated to bringing the latest news and information about solar energy and other renewable energy sources to the public. Jonas is passionate about promoting sustainable energy solutions and educating the public about the benefits of renewable energy. He is a regular speaker at industry events and conferences and is committed to driving the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.