Wind and solar generation grew 16% in 2024, according to the Energy Institute’s influential Statistical Review of World Energy.
The combined output rose nine times faster than total energy demand, the research found.
Fossil fuel use still increased just over 1%, the review said.
Overall energy demand climbed 2% to a record 592EJ.
Coal, oil, gas, renewables, hydro and nuclear all set new highs during the year, according to the study.
China provided 57% of wind and solar additions as solar output almost doubled in two years.
The institute warned renewables are augmenting rather than displacing fossil fuels.
The Energy Institute (EI) today released the 74th edition of the review, which is carried out in collaboration with Kearney and KPMG. It offers the first complete look at global energy data for 2024, according to the parnters.
Energy Institute president Andy Brown said: “Electrification is accelerating, but fossil fuels met 60% of demand growth.”
He said this produced “a fourth consecutive year of record emissions.”
Chief executive Nick Wayth said: “No country has shaped this outcome more than China.”
Kearney partner Romain Debarre said: “Energy security and technological sovereignty now trump climate goals.”
He said the world must move “from promises to action, at scale and at speed.”
KPMG partner Wafa Jafri said: “We are still not at the pace required.”
She said rising costs are slowing European projects while emerging markets surge.
The Energy Institute urged a coordinated push for a secure, affordable, low-carbon future.