The charts compare global energy consumption by source in 2010 and present a detailed breakdown of renewable energy use during the same year.
Overall, the world relied overwhelmingly on fossil fuels, whereas renewables played a minor role in total energy consumption. Within the renewable category, traditional biomass was by far the most prominent source, while wind and solar energy remained marginal.
Petroleum was the dominant energy source globally, accounting for 39% of total consumption. Natural gas and coal followed at 23% and 22% respectively, indicating that fossil fuels together supplied approximately 84% of the world’s energy needs. Nuclear electric power contributed a modest 8%, while renewable energy formed the smallest proportion at just 7%.
A closer examination of renewable energy reveals a clear imbalance among its components. Biomass constituted over half (53%) of renewable usage, highlighting its continued importance, particularly in developing regions. Hydroelectric power also played a substantial role, making up 36%. In stark contrast, modern renewable technologies such as solar and geothermal energy each accounted for only 5%, and wind energy was minimal at 1%.