Brief Analysis of Wind and Solar Power Generation

Did wind and solar add more energy in 2023?

Wind turbines and solar photovoltaic panels in Guizhou, China. Credit: Cynthia Lee / Alamy Stock Photo In 2023, wind and solar combined added more new energy to the global mix than any other source, for the first time in history, according to Carbon Brief analysis of newly released data.

Are solar photovoltaics and wind power growing?

Source: IEA. Solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind power have been growing at an accelerated pace, more than doubling in installed capacity and nearly doubling their share of global electricity generation from 2018 to 2023.

How much energy does wind & solar produce a year?

In combination, wind and solar now contribute 37EJ to the global energy system, up 15% year-on-year. Their combined output has grown at an average 17% per year for the past decade, taking them from a total of just 8EJ in 2013 to the 2023 figure of 37EJ.

What is the difference between solar energy and wind energy?

Solar energy generation is contingent upon daylight and clear weather conditions, whereas wind energy is unpredictable, depending on fluctuating wind speeds. The intermittency and variability of these energy sources pose a challenge to the stability of the electricity grid, thereby affecting the wider adoption of renewable energy systems.

Will solar PV & wind be part of the global electricity mix?

Consequently, the share of solar PV and wind in the global electricity mix in 2030 would reach 30%, lower than the 35% in the case where integration measures are implemented on time.

What percentage of China's Electricity is generated by wind & solar?

The share of wind and solar has risen rapidly, reaching 27% of installed capacity and 12% of generation in 2021. Hydropower accounts for 16% of power generation, with nuclear providing 5% and gas 6% of the total. Shares of China’s installed power generating capacity at the end of 2021 (top) and electricity generation in 2021 (bottom).