As of January 24, 2025, significant developments have emerged in the fields of renewable energy and education disruption due to extreme weather conditions.
Renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind power, have seen a remarkable increase in their share of the global electricity mix, rising from 5% in 2015 to approximately 19% today. Together with hydropower, biomass, and geothermal energy, renewables now account for around 35% of the world's electricity supply. However, renewable energy comprises only 15% of total global energy consumption, indicating a need for further growth in sectors like heating and transportation.
Solar power continues to be the fastest-growing energy sector, with a total output of around 2,200 gigawatts (GW) globally, covering 9% of energy demand. In 2024, China led the world in solar capacity expansion, adding 300 GW and accounting for 44% of all installed modules. The cost of electricity generated from solar and wind sources has decreased significantly, making them cheaper than fossil fuel alternatives.
In the wind energy sector, a record capacity of around 1,200 GW has been installed, with China also leading in this area. The total wind capacity in China reached approximately 475 GW, followed by the US and Germany. The declining costs of battery storage technology are further enhancing the viability of renewable energy systems.
In a separate report, UNICEF highlighted the impact of extreme weather on education, revealing that approximately 242 million children in 85 countries were affected in 2024. Disruptions due to heat waves, floods, and cyclones have made it difficult for students to attend school, particularly in South Asia, where 128 million children faced challenges. The report emphasizes the need to prioritize education in climate-related policies, as children are among the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.