Report: Renewable electricity made big gains in 2023, but coal and oil surge in developing world push emissions over 40 gigatons CO2 for the first time

### Report: Renewable Electricity Made Big Gains in 2023, but Coal and Oil Surge in Developing World Push Emissions Over 40 Gigatons CO2 for the First Time

In 2023, renewable electricity saw significant advancements, setting new records in global energy generation. Despite these gains, rising coal and oil consumption in developing countries drove global CO2 emissions to exceed 40 gigatons for the first time, according to the latest Statistical Review of World Energy.

#### Highlights of Renewable Energy Progress

– **Record Highs in Renewable Generation**: Renewable fuel generation, excluding hydro, increased by 13%, reaching a new peak of 4,748 terawatt-hours (TWh). Including hydro, renewables accounted for 15% of [the global energy mix](https://www.reuters.com/graphics/GLOBAL-ENERGY/byvrqkqglpe/chart.png).
– **Wind and Solar Capacity**: There was a substantial increase in wind and solar capacity, with 67% more additions in 2023 compared to the previous year. **These sources accounted for 74% of net growth in overall power generation.**
– **China’s Leadership**: China led the world in renewable energy growth, contributing to 55% of all global additions in renewable generation and 63% of new wind and solar capacity.

#### Improvements in Developed Regions

– **Europe’s Transition**: Europe saw a historic shift, with the **fossil fuel share of energy falling below 70% for the first time since the industrial revolution.** No European country reported an increase in fossil fuel use in 2023.
– **US Achievements**: The United States also reported significant progress, with notable increases in biofuels production and reductions in coal consumption, which fell by 17%.

#### Challenges in the Developing World

– **Surge in Fossil Fuel Use**: Despite the advancements in renewables, global fossil fuel consumption rose by 1.5%, driven primarily by demand in China and India. China saw a 6% increase in fossil fuel use, while India’s coal consumption exceeded that of Europe and North America combined.
– **Economic Development Pressures**: In developing economies, the need for economic growth and improved quality of life continues to drive fossil fuel consumption. This trend poses a significant challenge to global emission reduction efforts.

https://www.reuters.com/graphics/GLOBAL-ENERGY/akpeomodzpr/chart.png

#### Emissions Impact

– **Record CO2 Emissions**: The surge in fossil fuel use, particularly coal and oil, pushed global CO2 emissions to over 40 gigatons. Emissions within the fossil fuels category became more intense, offsetting the slight drop in their overall share of the energy mix.

### Moving Forward

The report underscores the importance of continued investment in renewable energy and the need for a balanced approach to energy consumption worldwide. While developed regions show promising signs of a transition away from fossil fuels, the global challenge remains substantial as developing nations continue to increase their fossil fuel use.

Romain Debarre of consultancy Kearney emphasized the need for clear-eyed analysis and forward-thinking policies to navigate this complex transition. As more studies and data emerge, understanding the dynamics between renewable advancements and fossil fuel dependencies will be crucial for shaping sustainable energy policies and mitigating climate impacts.