Non-carbon energy is expected to reach or exceed 10% of global primary energy demand for the first time ever in full-year 2020, according to new analysis by IHS Markit’s Jim Burkhard, head of oil markets, energy and mobility.

Primary energy demand

Non-carbon refers to wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Non-carbon energy’s share of global energy demand changed little from 1990 to 2019, staying between 8.3-9.8%, the consultancy said. Fossil fuels supplied 80-82% of demand during the span.

In 2020, however, Burkhard expects non-carbon energy’s share of demand to finally increase relative to fossil fuels from a combination of factors. These include Covid-19 impacts on fossil fuel demand, growing investment in renewables and increased concerns about climate change.

“For...