Global electricity demand rises in 2025: IEA

The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported a rise in global electricity consumption in 2025, driven by strong demand from electric vehicles (EVs) and data centers.

According to its Global Energy Review issued today, April 20, global energy demand grew by 1.3% in 2025, below the previous year’s pace amid slower economic growth and the rapid adoption of more efficient technologies.

Global electricity demand, however, rose by 3%, more than double the overall growth in energy demand.

Demand from EVs and data centers surged by 38% and 17%, respectively, while industry, household appliances and commercial buildings remained key drivers.

In advanced economies, electricity demand increased by 1.6% year-on-year (YoY), with notable growth in the US, where data centers accounted for about 50% of total demand growth.

In China, electricity demand remained strong but grew more slowly than in 2024, supported by improved energy efficiency and slightly lower cooling demand.