According to a new analysis from the independent energy think tank Ember, April 2026 marked a historic milestone in global electricity generation.For the first time, wind and solar power together produced more electricity worldwide than natural gas.Combined, wind and solar accounted for 22% of global electricity generation during the month, while gas contributed 20%.

In absolute terms, wind and solar generated approximately 531 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity, exceeding gas-fired generation by about 54 TWh, which totaled 477 TWh.The report highlights the rapid expansion of renewable energy over the past several years.In April 2021, global gas generation stood at nearly the same level as in 2026, around 476 TWh.However, wind and solar combined were far lower at that time, producing only about 245 TWh—less than half of current levels.This demonstrates a significant acceleration in renewable energy deployment and output over a five-year period.Ember notes that wind and solar growth has occurred across nearly all major electricity markets reporting data.

The timing of this milestone is also influenced by seasonal factors, as April typically brings strong wind conditions in the Northern Hemisphere, increasing solar output, and relatively moderate electricity demand between winter heating and summer cooling periods.Despite seasonal influences, the broader trend shows structural change in global electricity systems.

Ember’s Global Electricity Review indicates that wind and solar energy met all global electricity demand growth in 2025, suggesting renewables are increasingly responsible for incremental power needs worldwide.Governments are also accelerating renewable energy targets, aiming to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and improve energy security.

The findings collectively point toward a continuing shift in the global energy mix away from gas and toward renewable sources such as wind and solar power.