Wind and solar energy sources surpassed natural gas in global electricity generation for the first time in April, according to data analyzed by the UK-based think tank Ember. This shift reflects a longer-term trend rather than solely a response to escalating fossil fuel prices due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. The increase in renewable generation coincides with numerous countries reducing their reliance on gas imports amid the energy crisis.
In April, wind and solar power accounted for 22% of the world’s electricity, while gas contributed 20%. Kostantsa Rangelova, a global electricity analyst at Ember, noted that the current energy crisis underscores the economic advantages of renewables over imported gas and emphasizes the urgency to accelerate their deployment.
April typically sees a surge in renewable energy production due to optimal spring conditions in the Northern Hemisphere, where a significant portion of global solar capacity is located. This period tends to yield strong wind generation alongside increasing solar output.
Year-on-year, combined wind and solar electricity generation is estimated to have risen by 13%, with notable growth in various markets: China (+14%), the European Union (+13%), the United Kingdom (+35%), the United States (+8%), Australia (+17%), Chile (+24%), and Brazil (+4%). The findings are based on reported data from 36 countries and incorporate conservative estimates for countries that have not yet released their April figures.
The data was published on May 21, 2026.
