Today, we’re thrilled to sit down with Christopher Hailstone, a seasoned expert in energy management and renewable energy. With his deep knowledge of electricity delivery and grid reliability, Christopher offers a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of global power generation. In this interview, we’ll dive into the historic milestone of renewable energy surpassing coal, explore the driving forces behind this shift, and discuss the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the quest for a cleaner energy future.
Can you walk us through the significance of renewable energy overtaking coal globally for the first time in early 2025?
Absolutely, this is a landmark moment. According to the latest data, renewable sources like wind and solar produced over 5,000 terawatt hours of electricity worldwide in the first half of 2025, edging out coal, which generated just under 4,900 terawatt hours. This shift signals that clean energy is no longer just a supplement—it’s becoming a core part of how we power the world. It’s a huge step toward reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change, especially since coal has historically been the dirtiest fuel in terms of pollution.
Which renewable energy sources played the biggest role in this transition?
Solar and wind were the heavy hitters. Solar power alone saw an increase of over 300 terawatt hours compared to the previous year, while wind added nearly 100 terawatt hours. These technologies are becoming cheaper and more efficient, making them viable options for large-scale energy production across many regions.
Why is reducing coal power so critical when it comes to global climate goals?
Coal is by far the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel. It releases roughly twice as much carbon dioxide per unit of energy compared to natural gas. Cutting coal use is essential because it’s the single biggest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions from electricity generation. If we’re serious about limiting global warming, phasing out coal has to be a top priority—it’s non-negotiable for meeting international climate targets.
What are some of the toughest hurdles in cutting back on coal worldwide?
There are several challenges. First, many economies, especially in developing regions, still rely heavily on coal for affordable and reliable power. Transitioning away requires massive investment in infrastructure for renewables and storage. Then there’s the political and social aspect—coal industries support jobs and communities, so phasing it out can face resistance. Finally, inconsistent renewable output, like when wind or hydro underperforms, often forces countries to fall back on coal as a backup.
The report describes this as a “crucial turning point” for renewables. What does that mean for meeting the world’s electricity needs?
It means renewables are no longer just filling gaps—they’re starting to drive the system. Global electricity demand grew by over 2.5% in early 2025, and renewables, particularly solar and wind, met almost all of that increase. This shows they’re scaling up fast enough to handle our growing appetite for power, which is a game-changer as we electrify more sectors like transportation and heating.
How are countries like China and India contributing to this renewable energy boom?
China and India are leading the charge. China, as the world’s largest electricity consumer, saw its solar output jump by 43% and wind by 16% in the first half of 2025, allowing it to cut fossil fuel use by 2%. India also made huge strides with a 29% increase in wind and 31% in solar, which helped reduce its coal and gas reliance by over 3%. These countries are investing heavily in clean energy infrastructure, setting an example for others.
On the other hand, why did fossil fuel use increase in places like the United States and the European Union during this time?
In the U.S., coal use spiked by 17%, largely due to a drop in natural gas generation and rising energy demand. Policy decisions favoring coal production also played a role. In the EU, gas-fired power rose by 14% and coal by a small margin, mainly because of weaker wind and hydropower output. When renewables can’t meet demand due to weather or other factors, fossil fuels often step in as a quick fix, highlighting the need for better storage and grid solutions.
How do policies supporting coal, like those in the U.S., affect the global push toward renewables?
These policies can slow down progress. When a major economy like the U.S. prioritizes coal through executive actions or pledges to support coal plants, it sends a mixed signal globally. It can delay investments in clean energy and undermine international efforts to reduce emissions. While renewables are gaining ground, such policies risk prolonging our dependence on high-carbon fuels, which we can’t afford if we’re serious about climate goals.
What’s your forecast for the future of renewable energy growth in the coming decade?
I’m cautiously optimistic. The momentum behind solar and wind is undeniable—they’re getting cheaper and more efficient every year. If countries continue to invest in grid modernization and energy storage, renewables could dominate global electricity by the mid-2030s. However, this depends on overcoming policy barriers, scaling up technology deployment, and ensuring energy equity for developing nations. It’s a tall order, but the trajectory we’re on now gives me hope for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
