Renewable energy capacity expands as solar surpasses coal in China

A study by Ember Energy indicates that electric technologies, or ‘electrotech’, are up to three times more efficient than current fossil fuel-based systems. The research highlights that two-thirds of energy derived from fossil fuels is wasted as heat, amounting to an annual loss of 380 exajoules, or approximately US$4.6 trillion.

In China, solar energy capacity has reached a significant milestone, surpassing coal in installed capacity for the first time. As of late July, China’s cumulative photovoltaic capacity reached 1,286 GW, slightly exceeding coal generation. Solar power accounted for 13% of the country’s total electricity consumption, with a 15.5% year-on-year increase in generation.

Meanwhile, in Spain, there is a growing trend toward hybridizing solar plants with battery storage systems to improve self-sufficiency. Climate activist Bill McKibben notes that the combination of solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries represents a critical tool against climate change, as solar energy becomes increasingly cost-effective.