At a global level, coal still accounted for the largest share of power generation at 38%, the same share as 20 years ago.
Gas is the second most used fuel with a share of 23.2%, significantly higher than in 1998. The share of oil and nuclear has declined substantially over the same period.
The share of renewables increased from 8.4% to 9.3%, up from only 1.3% 20 years ago. Regionally, there is significant variation in the penetration of renewables: Europe has the highest penetration, at 18.7%, followed by South & Central America.
Natural gas is the dominant fuel for power generation in North America followed by coal. In South & Central America, hydroelectricity accounts for more than half of power generation.
In Europe nuclear, coal, renewables and gas all have a prominent role. In CIS and the Middle East, natural gas is by far the most important fuel for power generation.
In Africa, natural gas and coal account for almost 70% of the electricity generated.
Coal remains the most important fuel in Asia Pacific.