Solar power surges but can't curb carbon emissions surge
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 solve the problem of increasing energy demand and, consequently, the continuously rising carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to climate warming.
Carbon dioxide emissions are increasing year by year, driving climate disasters. The rise in emissions is caused by the ever-growing demand for energy and changing weather conditions, which lead to more frequent use of air conditioning. As highlighted in the report by Ember, a growing percentage of electricity production is being generated by eco-friendly options. Although 2024 turned out to be a record year for obtaining electricity from renewable energy sources, it is still not enough.
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 CO2 emissions rising to 16.1 billion tons.
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 within its territory, including the Huanghe Hydropower Golmud Solar Park. China dominates solar energy development, accounting for over half of the 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 makes up 8%, and hydroelectric accounts for 14%. Although renewable energy sources are developing, their growth cannot keep up with the increasing energy demand, hindering the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
