What were the main drivers of global electricity demand growth in 2025, and how did EVs and data centers contribute?

Global electricity demand grew by 3% in 2025, with EVs and data centers contributing significantly—demand from EVs rose 38% and from data centers 17%. However, the report emphasizes that industry, household appliances, and commercial buildings remained the main growth drivers overall. In the United States specifically, data centers accounted for around 50% of total electricity demand growth, while additional growth came from residential, industrial, and transport sectors.

How did solar power and battery storage perform globally in 2025 according to the IEA?

Solar PV was the largest contributor to global energy supply growth in 2025 for the first time, accounting for over a quarter of the world’s energy demand growth—more than any other source. Battery storage was the fastest-growing power sector technology, with approximately 110 gigawatts of new capacity added globally during the year.

Global 2025 Power Demand Rose as EV, Data Centers Grew, IEA Says

Apr 19, 2026

The IEA reports global power consumption increased 3% in 2025, primarily driven by electric vehicle and data center demand. Solar PV led energy supply growth, while oil demand rose marginally and coal usage varied regionally.

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