A recent report from the World Energy Statistics Review sheds light on significant shifts in global energy consumption and emissions. According to the report, global emissions surged by 2.1% last year, surpassing a staggering 40 billion tons of CO2 equivalent. The majority of these emissions, exceeding 35 billion tons of CO2 equivalent, stemmed from direct energy consumption. This growth undoubtedly presents greater challenges for global climate change mitigation efforts.

In terms of electricity generation, global trends also showed notable growth. The report highlights that global electricity generation reached a record 29,924.8 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2023, marking a 2.5% increase from the previous year. China, the United States, and India stood out prominently in this growth trajectory. China, as one of the world’s largest energy consumers, achieved a record-high electricity generation of 9,456.4 TWh, marking a 6.9% increase. China’s share of global generation rose to 31.6%, up 1.3 percentage points from the previous year, demonstrating robust momentum in its energy sector and a firm commitment to energy transition and green development.

Meanwhile, while the United States generated 4,494 TWh of electricity, it experienced a 1.0% decrease compared to the previous year. This change may reflect adjustments in the U.S. energy structure and the rapid development of renewable energy sources. Similarly, Europe saw a decline in electricity generation, reaching 3,805.1 TWh, down 2.4%. This trend could be attributed to Europe’s emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energy in recent years.

However, amidst global growth in electricity generation, India’s performance was remarkable, reaching 1,958.2 TWh, a 7.0% increase. This growth not only showcases rapid development in India’s energy industry but also underscores its efforts in driving economic growth and energy transition.

Specifically, global electricity generation increased by 736.7 TWh in 2023. China alone accounted for 607.7 TWh of this increment, representing 82.5% of global growth. This figure not only reflects China’s robust energy sector growth but also its significant contribution to advancing energy transition and green development. Meanwhile, China’s per capita electricity generation reached 6,700 kilowatt-hours, surpassing that of developed countries like Germany, Spain, Italy, and the UK, yet still trailing behind the United States.

Notably, the World Energy Statistics Review report is a collaboration between the UK Energy Research Institute, KPMG, and Kearney. It consolidates insights and data resources from global energy experts, providing crucial reference for global energy policy formulation and energy transition advancement. Previously published by the oil giant BP, the report has gained enhanced authority and influence since being jointly released with the support of the UK Energy Research Institute, KPMG, and Kearney.

Overall, the global energy sector is undergoing profound changes. As climate change and energy transition progress, countries are actively exploring and experimenting with new energy development models. As one of the world’s largest energy consumers, China plays a crucial role in this process. By promoting energy transition and green development, China not only makes significant contributions to global climate change mitigation but also lays a solid foundation for its own sustainable development.