Solar And Wind Energy Lead Advancement And Drive Global Energy Transition
On the eve of the COP30, the new report from Ember in partnership with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reveals that clean energy sources surpassed 40% of global electricity generation in 2024. The advancement is primarily driven by the expansion of solar and wind sources, which are consolidating as pillars of the global energy transition.
Global Scenario And Record Numbers
According to the report from Ember, global generation from low-emission sources reached 40.9% in 2024, reflecting a significant increase compared to the previous year. Renewable energies were responsible for the addition of 858 TWh to the global electricity matrix, a leap of 49% compared to the previous record.
Solar energy was the standout, recording a 29% growth in generation capacity. Meanwhile, wind energy expanded by 7.9%, reaching 2,494 TWh in the same period. In contrast, fossil sources advanced only 1.4%, highlighting that renewables gain space and competitiveness on a global scale.
Reduced Costs And Expanding Microgeneration
Despite geopolitical and economic instability, the installation and operation costs of renewable sources continue to decline, maintaining their attractiveness compared to fossil fuels. This scenario has stimulated the expansion of distributed microgeneration, especially from photovoltaic solar energy in homes and small businesses.
As a result, consumers have started to save while simultaneously driving demand for solar equipment, strengthening the global production chain. The economy of scale and the decreasing costs of photovoltaic systems make the transition even more accessible and sustainable.
However, wind farms, while strategic, depend on higher investments, which may restrict their expansion compared to solar.
-
The world could operate on clean electricity by 2050, but a study indicates that this would require up to 20 TW of renewable energy, more than 9 million hectares for solar, and strong cooperation between countries.
-
New catalyst developed by scientists in the USA enhances the performance of water electrolysis without using platinum, reducing operational costs and expanding the potential of green hydrogen as a strategic alternative for industries, heavy transportation, and clean energy generation.
-
China implements basalt fibers tested on the Moon to contain the desert’s advance in 1 million hectares, and the program surprises scientists worldwide.
-
Fernando de Noronha begins unprecedented energy transformation with a R$ 350 million solar plant that promises to replace diesel generation and change the island’s sustainable future by 2027.
Structural Challenges And Risk Of Slowdown
Even with advancements, the lack of adequate infrastructure could compromise the speed of the energy transition. The expansion of transmission networks and intelligent energy management systems is essential to efficiently integrate multiple renewable sources.
Moreover, the projected overproduction of oil in the United States for 2025 could pressure commodity prices and dissuade investments in new clean sources.
Instability in international trade also contributes to some countries delaying energy transition plans, awaiting greater economic security.
Renewed Hope With COP30
Despite these obstacles, the global trend remains firmly aimed at decarbonization. The report from Ember and IRENA emphasizes that renewable sources are today more competitive and accessible.
The growth recorded in 2024 consolidates a historic milestone in global electricity generation.
The proximity of the COP30, scheduled for November 2025, underscores the urgency of continuing investments in clean energy, ensuring a sustainable and resilient electricity system.
After all, the energy transition is no longer an option — it is an urgent necessity.

Be the first to react!