Renewables Surpass Coal in Global Electricity for First Time

7 HOURS AGO·UPDATED 2 HOURS AGO

story

Above: Solar panels. Image copyright: Unsplash

The Spin

Optimist narrative

Solar and wind power have achieved a historic breakthrough, demonstrating that clean energy can meet increasing global electricity demand. This milestone signifies that renewables are no longer niche but have become mainstream technologies driving the entire power system forward. Accelerated investment in solar, wind and battery storage will deliver clean, affordable electricity to communities worldwide.

Ember

Cynical narrative

Despite renewable growth, the transition faces serious infrastructure challenges that threaten reliability and cost taxpayers billions. Wind and solar's intermittent nature forces energy providers to pay farms to stop producing during peak times, then pay gas plants to fill gaps. Without massive grid upgrades and storage solutions, this costly inefficiency will only worsen as renewable energy sources expand.

Daily Mail