Global CO2 emissions from the power sector, increased just 0.2% in the first half of 2023, according to Ember’s latest report, with the rise of wind and solar energy offsetting declining hydro power due to droughts. Wind and solar capacity provided a record 14.3% of global power demand, although hydro power dropped by 8.5%.
Despite the growth in renewable energy, CO2 emissions plateaued rather than fell due to a slight rise in fossil-fueled generation to compensate for the reduction in hydro power. Ember’s report indicates that the expansion of low-carbon electricity supplies is currently insufficient to limit global warming to 1.5C.
Wind and solar energy generation increased 12% from the first half of 2022, contributing 14.3% of global electricity generation. However, solar and wind growth rates were slower than the previous year, falling short of what the International Energy Agency (IEA) reckons is needed to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Ember also reported a record drop in hydropower generation of 8.5% in the first half of 2023 due to droughts, likely worsened by climate change. This decline in hydropower contributed to a marginal increase in fossil fuel use.
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https://www.carbonbrief.org/?p=48285
