Wind and Solar Overtake Gas in Global Electricity Milestone

Wind and solar power generated more electricity than gas worldwide for the first time in April, marking a major step towards cleaner energy systems and reduced reliance on imported fossil fuels across multiple countries.

“The current energy crisis has further strengthened the economic case for renewables compared to imported gas, while also adding greater political urgency to accelerate deployment,” said Kostantsa Rangelova, Global Electricity Analyst at Ember.

Wind and solar together supplied 22% of global electricity in April, compared with 20% from gas. Combined renewable generation rose 13% year-on-year, with strong growth in China, the European Union, Britain, the United States, Australia, Chile and Brazil. The achievement reflects a broader long-term shift towards renewable energy, with expanding wind and solar capacity helping improve energy security while lowering emissions. The analysis covered 36 countries and used estimates for nations that had not yet published April data.