Wind and solar surpass gas in global electricity generation for first time in April 2026
By
Michelle Lewis
An everything bagel for the brain. Substantive, layered, well-seasoned.
Summary
For the first time ever, wind and solar generated more electricity globally than gas in April 2026. According to Ember, wind and solar produced 22% of the world's electricity (531 TWh) compared to 20% from gas (477 TWh), marking a historic milestone in the global energy transition.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledWind and solar produced 22% of the world's electricity in April 2026, compared to 20% from gas.
Together, the two renewable sources generated a record 531 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity during the month, 54 TWh more than gas plants generated globally, at 477 TWh.
For the first time ever, they generated more electricity than gas for the full month of April.
You might also wanna read
Europe's Renewable Energy Milestone: Wind and Solar Now Outpace Fossil Fuels in Power Generation
Europe has reached a significant energy milestone, with wind and solar power generation now surpassing fossil fuels for the first time. In 2
Renewables Surpass Natural Gas in U.S. Power Generation for First Time
For the first time in U.S. history, renewable energy sources generated more electricity than natural gas in a recent month, marking a signif
Solar Power Becomes World's Leading Energy Source for New Capacity, IEA Reports
The International Energy Agency's 2026 Global Energy Review reveals that solar power has become the world's leading source of new energy cap
electrek.co·1mo agoUK Avoids £1 Billion in Gas Imports Through Record Wind and Solar Generation in March 2026
Analysis shows the UK avoided £1 billion in gas imports in March 2026 due to record electricity generation from wind and solar power. Wind g
Solar Power Surpasses Hydroelectric Generation in US for First Time After 35% Growth
The article reports on the US Energy Information Administration's 2025 electricity generation data, revealing a mixed picture. While overall
arstechnica.com·3mo agoSolar Power Achieves Largest Growth Ever Recorded for Any Energy Source in 2025
The International Energy Agency reports that solar power experienced unprecedented growth in 2025, with solar PV generation showing the larg
arstechnica.com·1mo ago