Global Coal Giants Nearing Turning Point
Together, China, India, and Indonesia accounted for nearly 73% of global coal use in 2024. Historically, they have been the main contributors to rising carbon emissions since the Paris Agreement. The CREA report suggests that for the first time, all major coal-dependent economies could simultaneously stabilise or reduce fossil fuel use — a development that could reshape global energy markets and influence coal-exporting countries.
China Leads with Massive Clean Energy Surge
China’s emissions have already begun to decline as solar and wind energy expand at record levels. The country added 277 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity in 2024 and another 212 GW in the first half of 2025. Wind installations surpassed 80 GW last year and are expected to exceed 100 GW this year. According to CREA’s co-founder Lauri Myllyvirta, maintaining this pace will make China’s coal power peak imminent.
India’s Renewable Push Gains Pace
India is on track to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2030 goal of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity. The country has already achieved over half this target, boosted by record renewable additions and a rapidly growing domestic solar manufacturing base producing 118 GW annually. CREA analysts note that India could peak coal power before 2030 if it continues to strengthen grid infrastructure, enhance storage, and improve transmission efficiency.
Exam Oriented Facts
- China, India, and Indonesia together used 73% of global coal in 2024.
- China added nearly 490 GW of solar capacity between 2024 and mid-2025.
- India’s solar manufacturing capacity stands at 118 GW per year.
- Indonesia plans to install 100 GW of solar under President Prabowo Subianto’s initiative.
Indonesia’s Ambitious but Uncertain Path
Indonesia’s roadmap to achieve 100 GW of solar capacity by 2030 could similarly cap coal emissions, yet the nation’s near-term energy plans still favour coal and gas projects. CREA warns that unless the government translates its clean energy ambitions into actionable policies, fossil fuel growth could delay its transition. Nonetheless, falling renewable and battery costs — down by 60% and 50% respectively since 2022 — make the economic case for clean energy increasingly compelling across all three nations.
