Renewables Overtake Coal: The World Turns to Clean Energy


Solar and wind power

Big news in the world of energy, for the first time in history, renewable energy has overtaken coal as the largest source of electricity generation globally.

According to data from Ember, the global think tank, solar and wind power met 100% of the world’s growing electricity demand in the first half of 2025. That means every bit of new electricity we’ve needed this year has come from clean energy sources, not fossil fuels.

Experts are calling this a crucial turning point in renewable energy, one we’ve been waiting for and at SolarTherm UK, working towards.

Solar Leads the Charge

Of all the renewable sources, solar power is leading the way. In fact, solar alone provided 83% of the world’s new electricity growth this year. That’s an incredible figure, and shows just how far solar has come. Advances in technology and major cost reductions (solar prices have fallen by an incredible 99.9% since 1975!), clean energy has never been more accessible or affordable for homeowners and businesses alike.

Countries across Asia and Africa are seeing solar booms. Kenya already gets more than 80% of its electricity from renewables, while South Africa and Nigeria are rapidly scaling up solar power to meet rising energy demand.

Even China, often criticised for its coal use, is now adding more solar and wind power than the rest of the world combined. Renewable energy isn’t just a target for the future, it’s in the present, right now.

Not Every Region Is Moving at the Same Speed

While developing countries are racing ahead with renewables, some of the more wealthier nations are lagging behind. The US and EU, for instance, saw an increase in fossil fuel use this year due to weaker wind and hydro performance and a growing demand in energy.

The global trend is clear, renewables are winning. Every major forecast shows that solar and wind are now the backbone of new power generation and the clean energy transition is accelerating.

SolarTherm UK Insight: What This Means for You

At SolarTherm UK, we see this as more than just a global headline, it’s a sign of real change happening right here at home. As the world switches to cleaner, smarter and more sustainable energy, UK homeowners and businesses have a huge opportunity to be part of the movement and to save up to 70% off their energy bills in the process.

Solar energy isn’t just about being eco-friendly anymore; it’s about being energy independent and financial stability. With electricity prices continuing to rise and government incentives still available, installing solar panels today can dramatically cut your bills and future-proof your home, giving you back control of your power.

We’ve helped thousands of households across Essex, Kent and the South East make the switch, and the results speak for themselves – lower energy bills, reduced carbon footprints and the satisfaction of generating clean, free electricity direct from your roof.

Ready to Join the Solar Revolution?

There’s never been a better time to go solar. Whether you’re looking to power your home, business or even your EV, SolarTherm UK can design and install a bespoke solar PV system that meets your needs.

Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.

Your home. Your energy. Your future.