Global Electricity Emissions (2022-2027)

Trends (2022-2024):

• From 2022 to 2024, global electricity-related CO₂ emissions rose from 13,490 Mt CO₂ to 13,822 Mt CO₂, marking a modest but steady increase. This trend reflects ongoing economic and energy demand growth, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific and Eurasia, where coal and gas continue to play a significant role in power generation. Despite the rapid expansion of renewables and nuclear power in several regions, emissions remained on an upward trajectory due to strong electricity demand and the slow phase-out of fossil fuels in key markets. The decline in Europe and the Americas was not enough to offset increases elsewhere, demonstrating the challenges of achieving deep emissions reductions on a global scale.

Future Projections (2025-2027):

• Looking ahead to 2025-2027, emissions are projected to stabilize around 13,776 Mt CO₂ by 2027, suggesting a transition period rather than a sharp decline. This stability reflects a balancing act between emissions reductions in regions with aggressive decarbonization efforts—such as Europe and parts of the Americas—and persistent emissions growth in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Eurasia, where coal and gas remain entrenched. However, the slowing growth rate indicates that the global energy mix is shifting, with renewables expected to play a larger role in offsetting fossil fuel emissions.

  While emissions are not yet on a clear downward trajectory, the plateau suggests that global power sector decarbonization efforts are beginning to take hold, with potential for reductions in the years beyond 2027.

Electricity Emissions & Mt CO₂

Electricity-related CO₂ emissions represent the total carbon dioxide released from power generation, measured in million metric tons (Mt CO₂). These emissions vary based on the energy mix, with coal and gas contributing the most, while renewables and nuclear producing little to no emissions.