Solar to dominate energy by 2035, but AI data centers will keep fossil fuels in business

BloombergNEF projects solar will become the world’s largest power source by 2035, surpassing coal, oil, and natural gas.

The shift is being driven by falling solar costs and rapid industrial-scale deployment across major markets.

At the same time, AI data centers are sharply increasing electricity demand, boosting the need for solar, batteries, gas, coal, geothermal, and nuclear power.

The report suggests AI growth could keep fossil fuels relevant in parts of the grid even as renewables accelerate.