In April, global wind and solar energy surpassed gas for the first time.

Wind and solar energy together produced more electricity than gas worldwide in April for the first time, according to data from UK-based think tank Ember released on Thursday.

Ember indicated that this shift reflects a larger trend rather than merely a response to rising fossil fuel prices due to the conflict in Iran. However, it noted that wind and solar generation is currently aiding many countries in reducing their dependence on gas imports amidst the ongoing crisis.

In April, wind and solar sources contributed 22% of global electricity, surpassing the 20% from gas. Kostantsa Rangelova, a global electricity analyst at Ember, stated that the current energy crisis has bolstered the economic argument for renewables over imported gas, while also creating a more pressing political need to accelerate their adoption.

April is typically a strong month for renewable energy due to favorable spring conditions in the Northern Hemisphere, where most of the world’s solar capacity is located, resulting in increased wind power alongside rising solar generation.

Globally, the combined output from wind and solar is estimated to have increased by 13% year-over-year, with notable gains in several regions: China (+14%), the European Union (+13%), the UK (+35%), the US (+8%), Australia (+17%), Chile (+24%), and Brazil (+4%). This analysis is based on reported data from 36 countries and incorporates conservative estimates for those yet to release April data.