Coal power generation falls in China and India for first time since 1970s

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Jillian Ambrose Energy correspondentJanuary 13, 2026 at 01:01 AM

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For the first time since the 1970s, coal power generation decreased in both China and India in 2023. Analysis by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air attributes this "historic" event to a record expansion of clean energy projects in both countries, which met rising energy demands. China added over 300GW of solar and 100GW of wind power, while India added 35GW of solar, 6GW of wind, and 3.5GW of hydropower. While milder weather and slower demand growth also contributed to India's fossil fuel reduction, the shift signifies a potential peak in global coal consumption and emissions, as China and India have driven over 90% of global emissions increases between 2015 and 2024.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

UK 40% Ukraine 50% Russia 50% International Energy Agency 60% Carbon Brief 60% Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air 70% India ×790% China ×690%

Keywords

coal power generation 100% clean energy 90% china 80% india 80% global emissions 70% wind power 60% solar power 60% energy demand 50% fossil fuel reduction 50% carbon brief 40%