Global wind and solar power outpace gas for first time in April, report shows

• Combined wind and solar output grew 13% year-on-year globally, with strong gains in China (+14%), the EU (+13%), Britain (+35%), the US (+8%), and Australia (+17%)
• April typically favors renewables due to spring conditions in the Northern Hemisphere, where most solar capacity is concentrated, combining strong wind output with rising solar generation
• The current energy crisis has strengthened the economic case for renewables while adding political urgency to accelerate deployment and reduce reliance on gas imports

Summary: Global Wind and Solar Surpass Gas Generation for First Time

Key Milestone: Wind and solar power combined generated more electricity than natural gas globally in April 2024, marking the first time renewables have achieved this threshold, according to UK think tank Ember.

Critical Figures:

• Wind and solar produced 22% of global electricity in April versus 20% from gas
• Combined wind and solar output grew 13% year-over-year globally
• Regional gains varied: Britain (+35%), Chile (+24%), Australia (+17%), China (+14%), EU (+13%), US (+8%), and Brazil (+4%)

Market Context: Ember characterized this milestone as part of a broader structural trend rather than a temporary response to elevated fossil fuel prices following Iran-related tensions. However, analysts noted the shift helps reduce gas import dependence for countries affected by energy crises.

Seasonal Factors: April typically favors renewable generation due to Northern Hemisphere spring conditions, which combine strong wind output with rising solar production. Most global solar capacity is concentrated in this region.

Implications: The data reinforces the accelerating energy transition and renewables' growing competitiveness against imported gas. Kostantsa Rangelova, Ember's global electricity analyst, emphasized that the current energy crisis has strengthened both the economic case and political urgency for renewable deployment.

Methodology: Analysis covers reported data from 36 countries with conservative estimates applied to nations yet to publish April figures.

This development signals a pivotal moment in global energy markets, demonstrating renewables' expanding role in electricity generation and their potential to displace traditional fossil fuel sources amid ongoing geopolitical and economic pressures.