60% of global electricity is generated from Fossil

Fossil fuel energy is derived from organic materials, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, that have been subjected to millions of years of geological processes. The combustion of these materials produces heat, which can be used to generate electricity. Fossil fuels have been the backbone of industrial development and remain the most substantial source of electricity globally, accounting for around 60% of the electricity consumed worldwide.

In order to generate electricity from fossil fuels, the fuel is burned to produce heat, which turns water into steam. This steam spins a turbine connected to a generator, producing electricity. Despite being an effective means of generating power, this process emits significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other harmful pollutants. The carbon intensity of different fossil fuels used in electricity generation varies: coal emits 820 gCO₂eq/kWh, oil emits 650 gCO₂eq/kWh, and natural gas emits 490 gCO₂eq/kWh.

One of the primary advantages of shifting to low-carbon energy sources like wind, nuclear, and solar is their significantly lower carbon intensity compared to fossil fuels. For instance, wind power has a carbon intensity of just 11 gCO₂eq/kWh, nuclear power has a carbon intensity of 12 gCO₂eq/kWh, and solar power emits around 45 gCO₂eq/kWh. These figures highlight the compelling environmental benefits of these low-carbon technologies, dramatically reducing CO2 emissions when compared to the fossil range of 490-820 gCO₂eq/kWh, thereby alleviating the escalating threat of climate change.

The global electricity mix today highlights the reliance on fossil fuels, with some regions almost exclusively depending on them. For example, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Brunei generate 100% of their electricity from fossil fuels, while in the United Arab Emirates, 82% of electricity comes from fossil sources. Such high dependence underlines the urgent need to transition to low-carbon energy sources for cleaner and more sustainable electricity production.

Adopting low-carbon technologies like wind, nuclear, and solar not only addresses the carbon emissions challenge but also ensures energy security and diversification. Unlike fossil fuels, which are subject to market volatility and geopolitical tensions, low-carbon energy sources provide more stable and predictable energy supply options. This makes them highly attractive for both environmental and economic reasons.

By investing in and expanding low-carbon energy infrastructure, countries can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize air pollution. This transition is essential for achieving sustainable development goals, protecting public health, and ensuring a viable planet for future generations.