Renewable surge in 2024 fails to curb rising carbon emissions
According to a report by the think tank Ember, in 2024, over 40% of the world's electricity came from renewable sources. However, this does not address the problem of rising energy demand, which in turn leads to continuously increasing carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to climate warming.
Carbon dioxide emissions are increasing annually, driving the climate crisis. The rise in emissions is caused by the ever-growing demand and changing weather conditions, leading to more frequent use of air conditioning. As highlighted in the report by Ember, a growing percentage of electricity production is sourced from eco-friendly options. Although 2024 was a record year for electricity from renewable energy sources, it is still insufficient.
Demand is continuously increasing
Solar energy is currently the fastest-growing energy source in the world. Over the past three years, energy production from solar panels has doubled. This dynamic growth rate underscores the critical role solar energy plays in the global energy mix.
Despite the increase in the share of renewable energy, demand continues to outpace its production. In 2024, global energy consumption increased by 4%, which contributed to the increase in CO2 emissions to approximately 14.6 billion metric tonnes.
China is the largest producer of solar energy
China is one of the largest investors and producers of solar energy. It has some of the largest photovoltaic farms on its territory, including Huanghe Hydropower Golmud Solar Park. China dominates solar energy development, accounting for over half of global growth. Besides China, significant growth was recorded in India, which increased its production capacity between 2023 and 2024.
Despite rapid development, solar energy accounts for only 7% of global energy production. For comparison, wind energy constitutes 8%, and hydroelectricity 14%. Although renewable energy sources are developing, their growth cannot keep up with the increasing energy demand, hindering the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
