World Business Report Renewable energy overtakes coal
Oct 7, 2025
A historic shift occurs as renewable energy surpasses coal as the leading source of electricity worldwide, marking a significant milestone. Meanwhile, UK police break up an international gang accused of smuggling 40,000 stolen mobile phones to China. The political landscape in France remains shaky, with the resignation of multiple prime ministers in a single year. In Nigeria, farmers are increasingly turning to solar-powered water pumps, while a competitive solar market emerges in Zimbabwe.
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Renewables Surpass Coal Globally
- Wind and solar have overtaken coal as the world's leading electricity source for the first time.
- Ember calls this a crucial turning point driven largely by China adding massive renewables capacity.
Farmers Switch To Solar Pumps
- Nigerian crop farmers switched from petrol pumps to solar water pumps to cut fuel use and stress.
- One farmer reported replacing 200 litres of weekly petrol consumption with solar-powered pumps.
Zimbabwe Solar Business Grows
- Niasha Chasakara of SolarPro describes rising demand in Zimbabwe driven by power crises and price drops.
- She notes cheaper panels, inverters and batteries and more Chinese competition but growing local suppliers.