GITNUXREPORT 2025

Sustainability In The Utility Industry Statistics

Utilities transition rapidly toward renewables, reducing emissions and investing heavily.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

Solar and wind energy are now the lowest-cost options for new power generation in most regions globally

Statistic 2

The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for solar PV has dropped by 82% since 2010, making it one of the most competitive sources of power

Statistic 3

The cost of offshore wind energy has decreased by 60% since 2015, making it more competitive with traditional energy sources

Statistic 4

Water recycling in the utility industry increased by 30% from 2018 to 2023, helping reduce freshwater dependency

Statistic 5

The average lifetime of utility-scale solar PV installations is approximately 30 years, with ongoing enhancements increasing operational efficiency

Statistic 6

The adoption of blockchain for energy trading and peer-to-peer energy sharing increased significantly among utilities in 2023, promoting decentralized renewable energy use

Statistic 7

The use of machine learning and AI in utility management increased by 35% in 2023, optimizing renewable energy generation and grid operations

Statistic 8

The number of utilities adopting carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology increased by 50% in 2023, aimed at reducing emissions from fossil fuel plants

Statistic 9

Utilities' use of predictive maintenance and IoT sensors increased efficiency and reduced operational costs by an estimated 15% in 2023

Statistic 10

The cost of green hydrogen production decreased by 40% from 2018 to 2023, making it more viable for industry decarbonization

Statistic 11

65% of US utility companies are now adopting some form of energy efficiency program

Statistic 12

The EU aims to become climate-neutral by 2050, with utilities expected to contribute 85% of the total emissions reductions through renewable integration

Statistic 13

In 2023, the global smart meter deployment surpassed 600 million units, enabling demand response and energy efficiency at utilities worldwide

Statistic 14

The increase in energy efficiency measures in utilities worldwide saved an estimated 200 TWh of electricity in 2023, equivalent to the annual consumption of several countries

Statistic 15

The average reduction in water use in cooling systems at power plants that adopted dry cooling technologies was around 80%, helping conserve freshwater resources

Statistic 16

The global deployment of energy-efficient LED lighting by utilities increased by 25% in 2023, reducing electricity consumption and supporting sustainability goals

Statistic 17

The utility sector contributed approximately 39% of global CO2 emissions in 2022

Statistic 18

Renewable energy sources accounted for 29% of global electricity generation in 2022

Statistic 19

Wind power contributed 13% of electricity generation globally in 2022

Statistic 20

Utility companies reduced their greenhouse gas emissions by 40% from 2010 levels by 2022

Statistic 21

Hydropower remains the largest source of renewable electricity, accounting for 16% of global electricity production in 2022

Statistic 22

The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is expected to increase electricity demand by 25% in North America by 2040

Statistic 23

The share of coal in electricity generation decreased to 36% worldwide in 2022

Statistic 24

Globally, over 600 million people still lack access to reliable electricity, with utilities working on expanding grids and off-grid solutions

Statistic 25

The global use of bioenergy for electricity, heating, and transportation reached 60 EJ in 2022, supporting renewable energy targets

Statistic 26

The proportion of low-carbon generation in the US energy mix increased from 40% in 2010 to 62% in 2023, driven by renewables and nuclear

Statistic 27

The global population without access to electricity decreased by 250 million from 2015 to 2023, thanks to utility-led expansion projects

Statistic 28

The share of nuclear power in global electricity generation has stabilized at around 10-11% since 2020, complementing renewables in a low-carbon mix

Statistic 29

Renewable energy sources generated over 12,000 TWh globally in 2022, marking a 4.5% increase from the previous year

Statistic 30

The share of electricity generated from biomass in the global energy mix reached 5% in 2022, with growth projected as policies favor renewable fuels

Statistic 31

The proportion of nuclear energy’s share in global power generation has remained steady at about 10-11% since 2020, providing a stable low-carbon energy source

Statistic 32

More than 250 utilities worldwide committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050

Statistic 33

Investments in clean energy by utilities totaled $210 billion in 2022

Statistic 34

78% of utilities worldwide have set renewable energy targets for 2030

Statistic 35

Investments in smart grid technologies reached $35 billion globally in 2023

Statistic 36

Utilities operating in the US have committed to installing 100 GW of energy storage capacity by 2030

Statistic 37

Utilities in Europe have reduced coal dependency by 50% since 2015, investing heavily in renewables

Statistic 38

The global clean energy sector attracted over $300 billion in investments in 2023, a 17% increase over 2022

Statistic 39

In 2022, the percentage of utilities reporting greenhouse gas reduction plans increased to 85%, indicating a strong industry shift towards carbon-neutrality

Statistic 40

In 2023, global investments in hydroelectric projects amounted to over $15 billion, predominantly in emerging economies

Statistic 41

As of 2023, over 55% of US utilities have adopted some form of carbon pricing or internal carbon pricing mechanisms, aiding in emission reduction strategies

Statistic 42

The global market for electric vehicle charging infrastructure reached $27 billion in 2023, with utilities deploying thousands of new chargers worldwide

Statistic 43

The Energy Transitions Commission estimates that the world needs to invest $4 trillion annually in clean energy to meet climate goals by 2030, most of which involves utility-led projects

Statistic 44

Global public support for renewable energy projects has increased significantly, with 80% of surveyed countries reporting increased funding in 2023

Statistic 45

The use of green bonds by utilities for sustainable projects reached $70 billion in 2023, driven by investor interest in environmental impact

Statistic 46

The deployment of green hydrogen projects by utilities increased by 150% in 2023, supporting decarbonization of industry and heavy transportation

Statistic 47

Smart grid investments are expected to triple in the next decade, reaching over $100 billion annually by 2030, to accommodate growing renewable integration

Statistic 48

Over 70% of utilities in emerging economies invested in microgrids and off-grid solutions by 2023 to improve rural electrification

Statistic 49

The total investment in grid modernization and expansion by utilities worldwide in 2023 exceeded $150 billion, facilitating renewable integration and resilience

Statistic 50

The deployment of offshore wind projects in Asia-Pacific increased by 70% in 2023, driven by large-scale government initiatives and private investments

Statistic 51

60% of utilities worldwide have invested in resilience and disaster recovery measures as part of their sustainability strategies in 2023

Statistic 52

Over 65% of utilities in Asia-Pacific invested in renewable energy sector projects in 2023, primarily solar, wind, and bioenergy, demonstrating regional focus on sustainability

Statistic 53

The global utility-scale solar capacity reached 940 GW in 2023

Statistic 54

The global energy storage market grew by 45% in 2023, reaching 166 GWh of installed capacity

Statistic 55

According to the IEA, global utility-scale solar capacity is projected to reach 3,300 GW by 2030

Statistic 56

In 2023, global CO2 emissions from the power sector declined by 4% compared to 2022, primarily due to increased renewables

Statistic 57

Global water use for energy production accounts for roughly 5% of total water withdrawal, with significant increases expected due to renewable energy growth

Statistic 58

Nearly 70% of new utility capacity additions in 2023 were from renewable sources, emphasizing a global shift away from fossil fuels

Statistic 59

The total global capacity of geothermal power reached approximately 14 GW in 2023, contributing to sustainable energy portfolios

Statistic 60

Nearly 80% of new power generation capacity added in Africa in 2023 was renewable, primarily solar and wind, demonstrating significant growth potential

Statistic 61

Utilities are increasingly integrating digital technologies, with 63% adopting AI and big data analytics to optimize renewable energy integration

Statistic 62

The European Green Deal aims for the EU to be climate-neutral by 2050, with utilities contributing significantly through renewable capacity and efficiency improvements

Statistic 63

The share of distributed energy resources (DERs) in global electricity systems increased to 25% in 2023, enhancing grid resilience and integration of renewable energy

Statistic 64

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reports that renewable energy employment reached 12 million jobs worldwide in 2023, with utilities being major employers

Statistic 65

Over 90% of new power projects approved in Asia-Pacific in 2023 were renewable, with solar, wind, and hydro dominating, showing regional commitment to sustainability

Statistic 66

In 2023, the global capacity of offshore wind projects reached 65 GW, with plans to reach 150 GW by 2030, transforming the energy landscape

Statistic 67

Utilities are adopting corporate renewable PPAs more frequently, accounting for 20% of renewable capacity additions in 2023, fostering direct renewable procurement

Statistic 68

The European Union's Renewable Energy Directive aims for at least 40% renewable energy in gross final energy consumption by 2030, with utilities integral to reaching this target

Statistic 69

The global capacity of biogas and landfill gas power plants reached 27 GW in 2023, supporting circular economy and waste management goals

Statistic 70

45% of new utility-scale renewable projects in 2023 incorporated community ownership models, increasing local engagement in sustainability efforts

Statistic 71

The global renewable heat market, including solar thermal and biomass, grew by 20% in 2023, supporting decarbonization of heating sectors

Statistic 72

The global lithium-ion battery market for energy storage is expected to grow at a CAGR of 25% through 2028, supporting renewable energy integration

Statistic 73

The total capacity of utility-scale solar in Africa surpassed 20 GW by 2023, with significant future growth anticipated

Statistic 74

Around 35% of global coal-fired power plants are being retired or converted to biomass or other renewable fuels as of 2023, reducing carbon emissions

Statistic 75

The global share of renewable energy in primary energy consumption increased to 14% in 2022, supporting climate goals

Statistic 76

The number of green urban development projects with integrated renewable energy plans increased by 40% in 2023, promoting sustainable cities

Statistic 77

The global capacity for tidal and wave energy reached around 2 GW in 2023, with plans for further expansion in the coming decade

Statistic 78

80% of new utility-scale renewable projects in the Americas in 2023 included community engagement components, fostering local support

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Key Highlights

The utility sector contributed approximately 39% of global CO2 emissions in 2022
Renewable energy sources accounted for 29% of global electricity generation in 2022
The global utility-scale solar capacity reached 940 GW in 2023
Wind power contributed 13% of electricity generation globally in 2022
More than 250 utilities worldwide committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050
Investments in clean energy by utilities totaled $210 billion in 2022
Solar and wind energy are now the lowest-cost options for new power generation in most regions globally
The global energy storage market grew by 45% in 2023, reaching 166 GWh of installed capacity
Utility companies reduced their greenhouse gas emissions by 40% from 2010 levels by 2022
78% of utilities worldwide have set renewable energy targets for 2030
Hydropower remains the largest source of renewable electricity, accounting for 16% of global electricity production in 2022
Investments in smart grid technologies reached $35 billion globally in 2023
The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is expected to increase electricity demand by 25% in North America by 2040

With utilities worldwide reducing CO2 emissions by 40% since 2010 and investing over $300 billion into clean energy in 2023, the industry is accelerating its transition toward a sustainable, low-carbon future.

Cost and Technology Advances

Solar and wind energy are now the lowest-cost options for new power generation in most regions globally
The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for solar PV has dropped by 82% since 2010, making it one of the most competitive sources of power
The cost of offshore wind energy has decreased by 60% since 2015, making it more competitive with traditional energy sources
Water recycling in the utility industry increased by 30% from 2018 to 2023, helping reduce freshwater dependency
The average lifetime of utility-scale solar PV installations is approximately 30 years, with ongoing enhancements increasing operational efficiency
The adoption of blockchain for energy trading and peer-to-peer energy sharing increased significantly among utilities in 2023, promoting decentralized renewable energy use
The use of machine learning and AI in utility management increased by 35% in 2023, optimizing renewable energy generation and grid operations
The number of utilities adopting carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology increased by 50% in 2023, aimed at reducing emissions from fossil fuel plants
Utilities' use of predictive maintenance and IoT sensors increased efficiency and reduced operational costs by an estimated 15% in 2023
The cost of green hydrogen production decreased by 40% from 2018 to 2023, making it more viable for industry decarbonization

Cost and Technology Advances Interpretation

As renewable energy costs plummet and innovative technologies like blockchain and AI become mainstream, the utility industry is not just going green but doing so with a level of sophistication that’s transforming it into a digitally powered, sustainable powerhouse—proof that Mother Nature and Moore’s Law might just be the best team in the energy sector.

Energy Efficiency and Nuclear share

65% of US utility companies are now adopting some form of energy efficiency program
The EU aims to become climate-neutral by 2050, with utilities expected to contribute 85% of the total emissions reductions through renewable integration
In 2023, the global smart meter deployment surpassed 600 million units, enabling demand response and energy efficiency at utilities worldwide
The increase in energy efficiency measures in utilities worldwide saved an estimated 200 TWh of electricity in 2023, equivalent to the annual consumption of several countries
The average reduction in water use in cooling systems at power plants that adopted dry cooling technologies was around 80%, helping conserve freshwater resources
The global deployment of energy-efficient LED lighting by utilities increased by 25% in 2023, reducing electricity consumption and supporting sustainability goals

Energy Efficiency and Nuclear share Interpretation

As utility companies globally swiftly embrace energy efficiency—ranging from smart meters to dry cooling and LED lighting—they're not only cutting emissions and conserving resources but also illuminating the path toward a more sustainable and climate-neutral future.

Energy Production and Contribution

The utility sector contributed approximately 39% of global CO2 emissions in 2022
Renewable energy sources accounted for 29% of global electricity generation in 2022
Wind power contributed 13% of electricity generation globally in 2022
Utility companies reduced their greenhouse gas emissions by 40% from 2010 levels by 2022
Hydropower remains the largest source of renewable electricity, accounting for 16% of global electricity production in 2022
The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is expected to increase electricity demand by 25% in North America by 2040
The share of coal in electricity generation decreased to 36% worldwide in 2022
Globally, over 600 million people still lack access to reliable electricity, with utilities working on expanding grids and off-grid solutions
The global use of bioenergy for electricity, heating, and transportation reached 60 EJ in 2022, supporting renewable energy targets
The proportion of low-carbon generation in the US energy mix increased from 40% in 2010 to 62% in 2023, driven by renewables and nuclear
The global population without access to electricity decreased by 250 million from 2015 to 2023, thanks to utility-led expansion projects
The share of nuclear power in global electricity generation has stabilized at around 10-11% since 2020, complementing renewables in a low-carbon mix
Renewable energy sources generated over 12,000 TWh globally in 2022, marking a 4.5% increase from the previous year
The share of electricity generated from biomass in the global energy mix reached 5% in 2022, with growth projected as policies favor renewable fuels
The proportion of nuclear energy’s share in global power generation has remained steady at about 10-11% since 2020, providing a stable low-carbon energy source

Energy Production and Contribution Interpretation

While utility companies have cut greenhouse gases by 40% since 2010 and renewables now generate over 12,000 TWh annually, the sector still bears the hefty responsibility for 39% of global CO2 emissions, highlighting that clean energy progress is both promising and urgently imperative.

Investment and Policy Commitments

More than 250 utilities worldwide committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050
Investments in clean energy by utilities totaled $210 billion in 2022
78% of utilities worldwide have set renewable energy targets for 2030
Investments in smart grid technologies reached $35 billion globally in 2023
Utilities operating in the US have committed to installing 100 GW of energy storage capacity by 2030
Utilities in Europe have reduced coal dependency by 50% since 2015, investing heavily in renewables
The global clean energy sector attracted over $300 billion in investments in 2023, a 17% increase over 2022
In 2022, the percentage of utilities reporting greenhouse gas reduction plans increased to 85%, indicating a strong industry shift towards carbon-neutrality
In 2023, global investments in hydroelectric projects amounted to over $15 billion, predominantly in emerging economies
As of 2023, over 55% of US utilities have adopted some form of carbon pricing or internal carbon pricing mechanisms, aiding in emission reduction strategies
The global market for electric vehicle charging infrastructure reached $27 billion in 2023, with utilities deploying thousands of new chargers worldwide
The Energy Transitions Commission estimates that the world needs to invest $4 trillion annually in clean energy to meet climate goals by 2030, most of which involves utility-led projects
Global public support for renewable energy projects has increased significantly, with 80% of surveyed countries reporting increased funding in 2023
The use of green bonds by utilities for sustainable projects reached $70 billion in 2023, driven by investor interest in environmental impact
The deployment of green hydrogen projects by utilities increased by 150% in 2023, supporting decarbonization of industry and heavy transportation
Smart grid investments are expected to triple in the next decade, reaching over $100 billion annually by 2030, to accommodate growing renewable integration
Over 70% of utilities in emerging economies invested in microgrids and off-grid solutions by 2023 to improve rural electrification
The total investment in grid modernization and expansion by utilities worldwide in 2023 exceeded $150 billion, facilitating renewable integration and resilience
The deployment of offshore wind projects in Asia-Pacific increased by 70% in 2023, driven by large-scale government initiatives and private investments
60% of utilities worldwide have invested in resilience and disaster recovery measures as part of their sustainability strategies in 2023
Over 65% of utilities in Asia-Pacific invested in renewable energy sector projects in 2023, primarily solar, wind, and bioenergy, demonstrating regional focus on sustainability

Investment and Policy Commitments Interpretation

With over $600 billion invested globally in clean energy and infrastructure upgrades by utilities in 2023 alone, the industry is not just talking about sustainability—it's cashing in on a greener, smarter future—though the real question remains whether these commitments will outpace the ever-looming climate crisis.

Renewable Energy and Capacity

The global utility-scale solar capacity reached 940 GW in 2023
The global energy storage market grew by 45% in 2023, reaching 166 GWh of installed capacity
According to the IEA, global utility-scale solar capacity is projected to reach 3,300 GW by 2030
In 2023, global CO2 emissions from the power sector declined by 4% compared to 2022, primarily due to increased renewables
Global water use for energy production accounts for roughly 5% of total water withdrawal, with significant increases expected due to renewable energy growth
Nearly 70% of new utility capacity additions in 2023 were from renewable sources, emphasizing a global shift away from fossil fuels
The total global capacity of geothermal power reached approximately 14 GW in 2023, contributing to sustainable energy portfolios
Nearly 80% of new power generation capacity added in Africa in 2023 was renewable, primarily solar and wind, demonstrating significant growth potential
Utilities are increasingly integrating digital technologies, with 63% adopting AI and big data analytics to optimize renewable energy integration
The European Green Deal aims for the EU to be climate-neutral by 2050, with utilities contributing significantly through renewable capacity and efficiency improvements
The share of distributed energy resources (DERs) in global electricity systems increased to 25% in 2023, enhancing grid resilience and integration of renewable energy
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reports that renewable energy employment reached 12 million jobs worldwide in 2023, with utilities being major employers
Over 90% of new power projects approved in Asia-Pacific in 2023 were renewable, with solar, wind, and hydro dominating, showing regional commitment to sustainability
In 2023, the global capacity of offshore wind projects reached 65 GW, with plans to reach 150 GW by 2030, transforming the energy landscape
Utilities are adopting corporate renewable PPAs more frequently, accounting for 20% of renewable capacity additions in 2023, fostering direct renewable procurement
The European Union's Renewable Energy Directive aims for at least 40% renewable energy in gross final energy consumption by 2030, with utilities integral to reaching this target
The global capacity of biogas and landfill gas power plants reached 27 GW in 2023, supporting circular economy and waste management goals
45% of new utility-scale renewable projects in 2023 incorporated community ownership models, increasing local engagement in sustainability efforts
The global renewable heat market, including solar thermal and biomass, grew by 20% in 2023, supporting decarbonization of heating sectors
The global lithium-ion battery market for energy storage is expected to grow at a CAGR of 25% through 2028, supporting renewable energy integration
The total capacity of utility-scale solar in Africa surpassed 20 GW by 2023, with significant future growth anticipated
Around 35% of global coal-fired power plants are being retired or converted to biomass or other renewable fuels as of 2023, reducing carbon emissions
The global share of renewable energy in primary energy consumption increased to 14% in 2022, supporting climate goals
The number of green urban development projects with integrated renewable energy plans increased by 40% in 2023, promoting sustainable cities
The global capacity for tidal and wave energy reached around 2 GW in 2023, with plans for further expansion in the coming decade
80% of new utility-scale renewable projects in the Americas in 2023 included community engagement components, fostering local support

Renewable Energy and Capacity Interpretation

The rapid expansion of renewables—solar soaring to 940 GW, offshore wind climbing towards 150 GW, and nearly 70% of new capacity in 2023 coming from renewables—paired with a 45% surge in energy storage and digital innovations like AI, underscores that while utilities are powerfully pivoting toward sustainability, the rising water and resource demands remind us that transitioning to a greener grid still requires careful management and global commitment.