Coal power generation in India and China dropped last year, thanks to a significant rise in renewable energy use. This is a noteworthy change: it’s the first time since 1973 that both countries saw a decline in coal use simultaneously. Lauri Myllyvirta, an expert from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, says this shift is a critical milestone in the global journey towards clean energy.
Interestingly, even as energy demand grew in both countries, their reliance on coal declined. Myllyvirta explains that coal power fell by 1.6% in China and 3% in India in 2025. This trend is especially significant for India, where renewable energy capacity surged by 44% year-on-year in the first eleven months of last year. To sustain this momentum, India must accelerate its transition to renewables to meet its green energy goals.
In China, new coal plants are being constructed, but many are designed for peak demand periods. As a result, despite the growth in coal capacity, actual coal use is decreasing. This complex situation highlights how countries can expand fossil fuel infrastructure while simultaneously shifting towards greener alternatives.
Looking globally, South Korea has committed to closing most of its coal-fired power plants by 2040. This move aligns with their goal to cut carbon emissions by half by 2035, with 40 coal plants already having set retirement dates.
This decline in coal use comes as coal demand increases in the U.S., driven by policies from the previous administration that favored the industry. The contrasting developments in these countries illustrate the varying approaches to energy and climate policy.
It’s clear that the energy landscape is changing. As more countries invest in renewables, the global reliance on coal could potentially wane. Keeping an eye on these trends is essential for understanding the future of energy production and climate action.
For further insights into climate policy changes, consider exploring resources from the Carbon Brief.
