Renewables surpass coal in US energy generation for first time in 130 years

We are seeing the end of coal,' says analyst as energy source with biggest impact on climate crisis falls for sixth year in a row

Solar, wind and other renewable sources have toppled coal in energy generation in the United States for the first time in over 130 years, with the coronavirus pandemic accelerating a decline in coal that has profound implications for the climate crisis.

Not since wood was the main source of American energy in the 19th century has a renewable resource been used more heavily than coal, but 2019 saw a historic reversal, according to US government figures.