Storyline
Global coal plant construction hits 10-year high in 2025 despite decline in coal power output
In 2025, nearly 100 GW of new coal-fired power capacity was added worldwide, marking a decade high driven mainly by India and China. However, global coal power generation fell by 0.6%, with significant output declines in these countries as renewables like wind and solar expanded.
Published 2026-05-20 11:15 UTCUpdated 2026-05-21 10:08 UTC
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Evidence trail (top sources)
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Overview
In 2025, nearly 100 GW of new coal-fired power capacity was added worldwide, marking a decade high driven mainly by India and China. However, global coal power generation fell by 0.6%, with significant output declines in these countries as renewables like wind and solar expanded.
Score total
1.23
Momentum 24h
2
Posts
2
Origins
2
Source types
2
Duplicate ratio
0%
Why now
- 2025 data reveals recent shifts in coal power capacity and generation trends.
- Energy uncertainty and policy shifts continue to affect coal sector decisions.
- Understanding these trends is critical for forecasting energy system evolution and climate impacts.
Why it matters
- Highlights the complex dynamics of the global coal sector amid the energy transition.
- Shows regional policy impacts, with the U.S. increasing coal use despite global declines.
- Reflects energy security concerns influencing coal plant retirements and new builds.
Continuity snapshot
- Trend status: insufficient_history.
- Continuity stage: emerging_confirmed.
- Current status: open.
- 2 current source-linked posts are attached to this storyline.
All evidence
All evidence
World burned less coal in 2025, but built more plants over energy uncertainty. The U.S. was a major outlier, with policy interventions leading to a 13% increase in coal electric...
climate · news.mongabay.com · 2026-05-21 10:08 UTC
New coal plants hit ‘10-year’ global high in 2025 – but power output still fell
Carbon Brief · carbonbrief.org · 2026-05-20 23:01 UTC
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- news.mongabay.com (1)
- carbonbrief.org (1)