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Global Electricity Demand Soars Amid Coal Dependence

2/14/2025

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Summary

Electricity Demand Surge

Global electricity demand is set to soar by 4% annually until 2027, fueled by the surge in electric vehicles, data centers, and air conditioning. While developed nations are cutting back on coal, countries like China and India are ramping up coal-fired power to satisfy their energy needs. Although renewable energy is on the rise, coal remains a vital player in Asia's energy landscape.

Summary

China's Coal Expansion

In 2024, China took a significant step backward by approving 66.7 GW of new coal-fired power capacity and starting construction on 94.5 GW—the highest surge since 2015. While the nation added 356 GW of renewable energy, the overwhelming reliance on coal threatens its ambitious carbon neutrality goals for 2060, as long-term contracts stifle the transition to cleaner energy.

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Electricity Demand Surge

Global electricity demand is set to soar by 4% annually until 2027, fueled by the surge in electric vehicles, data centers, and air conditioning. While developed nations are cutting back on coal, countries like China and India are ramping up coal-fired power to satisfy their energy needs. Although renewable energy is on the rise, coal remains a vital player in Asia's energy landscape.

1 / 2