Power sector emissions stagnate amid renewable growth
Energy Live NewsOct 05, 2023
The Facts
According to a report published by energy think tank Ember, carbon emissions from the global energy sector stalled in the first six months of 2023 and may peak later this year while global wind and solar power increased.
The report, which analyzed data from January to June 2023, covered 78 countries that reportedly make up about 92% of global electricity demand.
The Spin
Narrative A
The impressive rise of solar and wind energy, along with other renewables, in the mix of global energy sources shows that collective action can lead to planet-saving results. Some of the world's worst polluters, like China and India, have led the way in weaning the international community from fossil fuels. The world can breathe a sigh of relief.
Narrative B
The deficit in hydropower generation shows how fickle the global renewable energy mix is. This must put the world on guard. The international community must ensure that the advances made till now are not squandered. It must remain focused on tripling the world's renewable energy capacity, which is the only thing that can pause the world's runaway warming.
Nerd narrative
There's an 85% chance that renewable energy will contribute between 25% and 48% to global electricity production in 2030, according to the Metaculus prediction community.