Global renewable energy expansion reached unprecedented levels during the first six months of 2025, with solar and wind generation combining to add over 400 terawatt hours of clean electricity capacity. This growth rate exceeded worldwide electricity demand increases during the same period, marking a significant milestone in the energy transition despite surging power requirements from artificial intelligence applications and data centers.

China led renewable deployment by installing more solar and wind capacity than all other nations combined, while simultaneously reducing fossil fuel generation by two percent. India achieved similar success with record renewable growth outpacing demand increases, resulting in decreased coal and gas utilization. Both countries experienced declining power sector emissions despite economic expansion.

The United States presents a contrasting scenario where electricity demand growth, largely driven by data center construction, exceeded clean energy additions. Current federal policies have shifted toward supporting coal, oil, and gas production while terminating clean energy funding programs and halting offshore wind development. Industry analysts warn this approach creates supply-demand imbalances as AI infrastructure dramatically increases power requirements while blocking access to the most cost-effective new electricity sources. The policy divergence between global renewable acceleration and domestic fossil fuel emphasis poses significant implications for American electricity markets and energy security.