Global electricity demand is on the rise, projected to grow at one of the fastest sustained rates in over a decade.
According to the International Energy Agency’s latest mid-year update, demand is expected to increase by 3.3% in 2025 and 3.7% in 2026.
This growth is fuelled by rapid industrial electrification, increased appliance usage, expanded air conditioning, booming data centres, and the rise of electric vehicles.
Despite global economic uncertainties, electricity demand is set to remain strong through 2026.
The IEA also indicates that renewables could surpass coal as the world’s largest source of electricity — possibly by the end of this year or in 2026 — depending on weather conditions and fuel market trends.
The report highlights a clear shift toward cleaner power sources, with renewables, natural gas, and nuclear expected to lead the transition.