Emerging Economies Accelerate Solar Adoption
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Emerging economies are rapidly turning to solar power, outpacing Europe and the United States. In two thousand twenty‑three, renewable sources accounted for only a quarter of global electricity, yet the share of new capacity is climbing swiftly.
By the first half of two thousand twenty‑five, China met all additional electricity demand with clean power, and Brazil’s solar output surpassed coal for the first time in its history. In May of two thousand twenty‑six, solar energy generated more electricity than coal in the United States, marking a historic milestone.
These developments underscore a global shift toward affordable, sustainable energy, especially in regions that hold the majority of the world’s solar and wind resources. The transition is driven by falling costs, supportive policies, and the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As emerging markets expand their solar grids, they also create new jobs and reduce dependence
Timeline
- 2025-05 — Brazil’s solar output surpassed coal for first time
- 2026-05 — U.S. solar generated more electricity than coal, historic milestone
- 2026-05 — Solar energy leads U.S. electricity generation for first time