Solar Now Cheaper Than Fossil Fuels for Vulnerable Nations, Report Finds

A new analysis by Ember for the Climate Vulnerable Forum shows that solar power's upfront costs have fallen below those of coal and natural gas for 74 developing countries. These nations, representing over 20% of the world's population but less than 5% of global GDP, can now pursue a cheaper, scalable energy path. The shift could also pressure US fossil fuel exporters as overseas markets turn to solar.

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The Ember analysis, prepared for the 74-member Climate Vulnerable Forum, marks a turning point for nations long sidelined in the global energy economy. These countries collectively hold more than a fifth of the world's population yet generate under 5% of global economic output and electricity consumption. Three-quarters of their citizens currently survive on less than one megawatt-hour of electricity per person annually.

Import data suggests these markets are already moving.