
Traffic lights and stop sign with lignite-fired power station in the background, Grevenbroich, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Photo Credit: Jorg Greuel/Getty Images
Environment OECDMajor Economies Around the World Are Going Green
Coal generation has effectively declined in nearly all OECD countries as the shift toward clean energy continues to rise.
“Coal power is on its way out in the world’s richest economies. It is encouraging to see mature economies now switch their focus to repowering their whole economy with clean energy, to ultimately close the chapter not only on coal, but on all fossil fuels,” says Dave Jones, Global Insights Program Director for Ember Climate.
OECD countries have seen a 52 per cent decline in coal-generated energy since its peak in 2007. As of 2023, only 17 per cent of all energy generation came from coal in these countries, and by 2030, 27 of the 38 OECD countries have pledged to be coal-free. Currently, 14 of the 38 countries have already achieved coal-free power grids. Moreover, the shift is mainly toward clean forms of energy, such as solar and wind, rather than gas. As the chapter on coal closes, clean energy will ensure a more prosperous future for all.