Solar energy production increased by 23% worldwide in 2021, while wind supply increased by 14% over the same period. Together, the two renewable energy sources accounted for 10.3% of total global electricity generation, up 1% from 2020, according to Ember data.
The Netherlands, Australia and Vietnam have recorded the fastest growth rates for renewable sources, shifting around 10% of their electricity demand from fossil fuels to wind and solar over the past two years. years, the report said.
“If these trends can be replicated globally and sustained, the power sector would be well on its way to meeting the 1.5 degree goal,” Ember said.
However, despite advances in wind and solar, coal-fired electricity generation has seen its strongest growth since at least 1985, with a 9% increase in 2021, or 10,042 terawatt hours (TWh), or 59% of the total increase in demand, according to the report.
“We’re getting close to that break-even point where wind and solar can meet new electricity demand, but we’re not quite there yet. If we maintain the growth rates we’re seeing, we’re there.” will be soon,” said Dave Jones, Ember’s Global Head.
(Report Forrest Crellin; French version Camille Raynaud)
