Global electrification target requires faster policy shifts to meet 2035 goals

A new report by Climate Resource indicates that the world must significantly increase its share of electricity in final energy consumption to meet the ‘35 by 35’ global electrification pledge. This target, which aims for electricity to provide 35% of final energy by 2035, is expected to be a central focus of the upcoming climate summit in Turkiye.

Under current policies, electricity is projected to supply less than 30% of global final energy demand by 2035. While existing, cost-competitive technologies could raise this rate to 33%, reaching the full target will require enhanced policies regarding infrastructure, consumer awareness, and finance.

Achieving these ambitious electrification pathways could lead to a significant reduction in fossil fuel reliance, with median coal demand potentially plunging by 68% compared to 2025 levels. Additionally, oil and gas demand could drop by 23% and 19%, respectively. Such a shift would align energy systems with pathways to limit global warming to 1.5°C by 2100.