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In 2024, China’s consumption of renewable energy was the highest in the world, accounting for percent of global renewable consumption. Likewise, this country had the highest supply of primary energy from both renewable and non-renewable sources. Primary energy refers to energy that is derived directly from natural sources. The United States had the second highest share of global renewables consumption that year.

Alternatives to fossil fuels in China

Despite China accounting for such a large portion of global renewable consumption, the use of renewables is a relatively recent development for the country and still far less common than other traditional sources of primary energy. However, consumption of renewables has been higher than other alternatives to fossil fuels such as nuclear power. Both renewables and nuclear energy have seen significant increases in consumption in the last few years.

The renewables market in Germany

For a country of its size, with a fraction of the population and energy demands of China and the United States, Germany has seen a strong trend in increased renewable energy consumption. Germany has been a forerunner in the industry, with wind power coming into an increasingly important role. Total installed wind power capacity in Germany has almost tripled since 2008 and continues to rise consistently over recent years.