A Historic First: Renewables Overtake Coal Globally
The global energy transition has reached a major milestone! New data from the global energy think tank Ember confirms a historic first: renewable energy overtook coal as the world’s leading source of electricity in the first half of this year.
The incredible growth in solar and wind was so strong that it met 100% of the extra global electricity demand, even reducing the use of fossil fuels. Solar power delivered 83% of this growth, cemented by staggering cost reductions that have made it the most rapidly deployable energy source worldwide.
While the overall headline is brilliant, the data also highlights a mixed global picture. Developing nations, led by China and India, are forging ahead with massive clean energy deployment. China, for example, is adding more capacity than the rest of the world combined. In contrast, developed economies like the US and the EU are struggling. They faced increased reliance on fossil fuels due to demand outpacing clean energy output, or relying on backup during periods of low wind and hydro.
This volatility underscores one key truth for our markets: Reliability requires more than just generation.
Segen’s Role: The Solution to Global Volatility
The data from Ember reinforces the critical need for a complete energy system, not just components. This is where Segen and our installer partners come in.
Fluctuating demand, grid constraints, and periods of low generation (like the EU’s weak wind months) demand a solution that provides consistent power.
Our focus on market-leading solar PV and energy storage is the answer. We enable systems that deliver reliability 24/7.
Batteries are essential. As the IEA data shows, countries need affordable energy storage to capture and manage solar’s peak output, ensuring power is available when generation drops.
By supplying high-quality, fully integrated systems from trusted brands, Segen ensures our installers can deploy reliable, future-proofed systems that overcome grid challenges.
The overall trend toward renewables is undeniable. For every Segen partner, this moment represents a clear call to action: to provide the sophisticated, reliable, and integrated solar and storage solutions that will stabilise our energy markets and drive this historic global shift forward.
