In a historic milestone for the energy sector, renewable sources of electricity generated more power than coal globally in 2025 for the first time in over a century. According to data collated by energy think tank Ember, renewables accounted for 33.8% of the world's electricity supply last year, edging past coal, which contributed 33.0%. This shift was driven by a surge in output from solar and wind energy, bringing the globe closer to achieving long-term emissions goals.
The achievement marks a significant turning point in the global energy transition. For more than 100 years, coal has been the dominant source of electricity, powering industrial growth and economic development. However, the rapid expansion of renewable technologies, coupled with declining costs and supportive policies, has enabled clean energy to overtake coal on a global scale. The Ember data highlights that this trend is accelerating, with renewable capacity additions continuing to break records year after year.
The rise of renewables is being propelled by both established energy companies and emerging players. For-profit companies like Turbo Energy S.A. (NASDAQ: TURB) are deepening their footprint in international markets, contributing to the increased uptake of renewable energy. As these companies expand their operations, they are helping to drive down costs and improve the efficiency of solar, wind, and other clean energy technologies.
The implications of this milestone are far-reaching. For the energy industry, it signals a fundamental shift away from fossil fuels and towards a low-carbon future. Utilities and grid operators must now adapt to a rapidly changing energy mix, integrating higher shares of variable renewables while maintaining grid reliability. For investors, the data underscores the growing economic viability of renewable energy projects, which are increasingly competitive with traditional power sources. This trend is likely to accelerate as technological advancements and economies of scale continue to reduce costs.
From a policy perspective, the achievement provides momentum for governments worldwide to strengthen their climate commitments. The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, and the energy sector is critical to meeting those targets. The fact that renewables have surpassed coal suggests that a transition to a cleaner energy system is not only possible but already underway. However, the data also shows that coal still accounts for a significant share of global electricity, indicating that much work remains to be done.
For the average consumer, the shift to renewables could lead to more stable and potentially lower electricity prices over the long term, as renewable sources have no fuel costs and are less exposed to price volatility. Additionally, reduced reliance on coal will improve air quality and public health, particularly in regions where coal-fired power plants have been a major source of pollution.
Looking ahead, the continued growth of renewables will depend on several factors, including policy support, grid infrastructure investments, and technological innovation. The record set in 2025 provides a clear signal that the energy transition is accelerating, and stakeholders across the board must prepare for a future in which clean energy is the norm.
