Global growth in solar "the largest ever observed for any source"
3 hours ago
- #energy transition
- #solar dominance
- #electricity age
- IEA confirms 2025 as the first year of solar dominance, with carbon-free energy growth exceeding demand.
- Battery storage growth and stagnant fossil fuel use mark the start of the 'Age of Electricity'.
- Electricity demand grew twice as fast as overall energy demand, driven by EVs and heat pumps.
- EV sales rose nearly 40% and accounted for a quarter of car sales, but impact on electricity demand remains small.
- Heat pump sales were flat in 2025, but past growth means they dominate new heating unit sales in some countries.
- Natural gas use increased only 1% in 2025, with building sector demand rising due to cold weather.
- Middle East conflicts, like Strait of Hormuz closure, may accelerate shift from fossil fuels in 2026 due to reduced availability and higher prices.