In 2022, the global community witnessed devastating floods in Pakistan caused by melting glaciers, leading to the displacement of a significant portion of the population and severe damage to vital power infrastructure.
In response to the crisis, a considerable shift towards clean energy, particularly solar power, took place. The province of Sindh embarked on a reconstruction effort incorporating solar panels into newly built homes, while individuals sourced panels directly from China. This surge in solar energy adoption resulted in the addition of 22 gigawatts of solar power in 2024, surpassing the total installed capacity of Canada.
The trend towards renewable energy is gaining momentum worldwide, with developing nations leveraging falling prices of solar and wind power technologies. Meanwhile, the United States, a major oil producer, continues to prioritize fossil fuels, contrasting the global movement towards cleaner energy sources.
The recent UN climate summit, COP30 in Belem, Brazil, witnessed discussions on transitioning away from fossil fuels gaining prominence. Although a comprehensive deal was not reached, the emphasis on this transition underscores the growing international momentum towards reducing reliance on carbon-emitting energy sources.
Around 80 countries endorsed a proposal for a transition deal, including major European economies and nations vulnerable to climate change impacts. This shift is exemplified by countries like China, where a significant portion of economic growth stems from green technology, and India, which aims to establish a robust solar industry.
As the world teeters close to breaching the 1.5°C global warming threshold set in the Paris Agreement, global fossil fuel emissions continue to rise, now exceeding levels from 2015. China, a major emitter, faces scrutiny due to its reliance on coal-fired power generation and energy-intensive industrial sectors.
Conversely, renewable energy sources are gaining ground, surpassing coal in electricity generation for the first time in 2025. The global capacity for renewable power is expected to double in the next five years, indicating a substantial shift towards cleaner energy alternatives.
During COP30, China’s dominance in renewable energy technologies attracted attention, with the country leading in electric vehicle production and driving down costs for solar panels. Despite the progress in renewables, eliminating fossil fuel subsidies remains a critical challenge hindering the transition to cleaner energy sources.
The absence of U.S. representation at COP30 signifies a shift towards a multipolar leadership model in global climate discussions. Countries like China, Brazil, and India are stepping up to drive climate action and fill the void left by the U.S.
Looking ahead, discussions on transitioning away from fossil fuels will continue, with upcoming summits focusing on this critical shift. The global momentum towards clean energy reflects both ethical considerations and economic interests, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to accelerate the transition and mitigate climate change risks.