Renewable Energy Surpasses Coal Power for First Time Globally as Solar Growth Accelerates

For the first time in the initial six months of this calendar year, renewable energy sources generated more electricity globally than coal, according to Ashish Khanna, Director General of the International Solar Alliance (ISA). This landmark achievement was announced during the 8th session of the ISA Assembly in New Delhi.

Khanna emphasized the unprecedented pace of solar energy expansion. It took the world 25 years to reach 1,000 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity, but the subsequent 1,000 GW was added in just two years. Projections suggest this capacity could double again to 4,600 GW globally within the next four years.

The Asia Pacific region is driving this growth, accounting for about 71% of new solar installations. Latin America is identified as the next significant expansion area, while Africa possesses vast untapped solar potential due to its excellent solar radiation.

The ISA is actively working to attract private sector investment through initiatives like the Global Solar Facility, set to begin operations in Africa before expanding to Asia Pacific. The organization is also focused on capacity building to help countries develop local solutions and mitigate investment risks. A new technology roadmap and policy guidance are being developed to help member countries leverage solar and new technologies effectively.

Future plans include the launch of the Africa Solar Facility next year and a new program on regional interconnection to reduce reliance on battery storage. The ISA will also focus on managing waste and recycling materials as part of a critical mineral strategy. Efforts will be made to harmonize standards using India's experience and international norms, benefiting all 125 member countries. Furthermore, the ISA is establishing an ISA Academy and Global Capability Centre to provide digital learning solutions, ensuring widespread access to information on solar energy's benefits. The ISA will also publish key reports on global solar trends, ease of doing solar business, and floating solar.

Impact: This news signifies a major shift in the global energy landscape, potentially leading to increased investment in renewable energy sectors, accelerated development of solar technologies, and a reduced reliance on fossil fuels like coal. For India, which is a major player in ISA and has significant solar ambitions, this trend reinforces the strategic importance of renewable energy and could attract substantial domestic and international investment. Companies involved in solar manufacturing, installation, and related infrastructure are likely to benefit. Conversely, coal-dependent energy companies and economies may face pressure to transition. Impact Rating: 9/10

Difficult Terms: Gigawatt (GW): A unit of power equal to one billion watts, used to measure electricity generation capacity. Asia Pacific region: A geographical area comprising East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Oceania. Latin America: Countries in the Americas where Romance languages are predominantly spoken. Africa: A continent with 54 countries, known for its high solar radiation. International Solar Alliance (ISA): An alliance of 125 countries, initiated by India, to promote solar energy. Global Solar Facility: An ISA initiative to mobilize private investment for solar energy projects. Capacity building: The process of developing skills, knowledge, and abilities to improve performance. Technology roadmap: A strategic plan outlining the development and deployment of technology over time. Africa Solar Facility: A specific initiative by ISA to foster solar energy development in Africa. Regional interconnection: Connecting electricity grids of different areas to improve power supply reliability and efficiency. Battery storage: Systems that store electrical energy in batteries for later use. Critical mineral strategy: A plan to ensure access to minerals essential for green technologies. Harmonizing of standards: Aligning different regulations and specifications to ensure compatibility and facilitate trade. IEC: International Electrotechnical Commission, a global body that sets standards for electrical and electronic technologies. ISA Academy: An educational platform by ISA offering digital learning on solar energy. Global Capability Centre: A facility providing specialized services, often technology-related, to support global operations. Floating solar: Solar power systems installed on water bodies like lakes or reservoirs.