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For the first time in more than 50 years, coal-fired electricity generation has declined in both China and India, marking a significant shift in global energy consumption. This historic decrease, detailed in research from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) and published by Carbon Brief, may indicate a pivotal moment in the fight against carbon emissions.
In 2025, coal-generated electricity fell by 1.6% in China and 3% in India, a notable development given the steady rise in energy demand in both countries. Analysts attribute this decline not to a decrease in demand but to a remarkable surge in clean energy production that is transforming the energy landscape.
China experienced unprecedented growth in renewable energy, adding over 300 gigawatts of solar and 100 gigawatts of wind power in just one year. This figure exceeds five times the total energy capacity of the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, India also made significant advancements, installing 35 gigawatts of solar, 6 gigawatts of wind, and 3.5 gigawatts of hydropower. For the first time, India’s clean energy sector played a crucial role in reducing coal-fired electricity, contributing to a 44% drop in fossil fuel use over the past year.
While approximately 36% of India’s coal reduction can be attributed to milder weather and 20% to slower economic growth, the surge in clean energy is the primary driver of this change. The transition from coal to renewable sources is evident, as these two countries, which previously accounted for over 90% of the global emissions increase between 2015 and 2024, are demonstrating that a cleaner energy future is attainable.
Despite this progress, challenges remain. Increasing extreme weather events, including hotter summers that elevate air conditioning demands, could lead to a resurgence in energy consumption, particularly in India. The recent global rise in coal usage in 2022, driven by gas price hikes following geopolitical tensions, highlights the volatility of climate progress.
The International Energy Agency previously warned that coal emissions might remain near record highs until at least 2027. However, the recent data suggests that a turning point may be on the horizon. If the decline in coal use persists and renewable energy continues to expand at this pace, 2025 could be marked as the year when the world’s dependence on coal began to diminish significantly.
This development is particularly important for climate advocates, as both China and India are seen as key players in global efforts to mitigate climate change. Their ongoing transition to cleaner energy sources is no longer a theoretical concept; it is a tangible reality that is beginning to reshape the future of global energy consumption.
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