Renewables Surpass Coal as World’s Top Electricity Source; Snapchat Faces User Backlash Over New Storage Fees
For the first time ever,renewable energy sources have generated more electricity worldwide than coal,marking a pivotal shift in the global energy landscape. A report released this week by Ember, a global energy think tank, confirms that renewables accounted for 44% of global electricity generation in the first half of 2024, exceeding coal’s 39%. This milestone underscores the accelerating transition towards cleaner energy sources and signals a potential turning point in the fight against climate change.
The surge in renewable energy, driven primarily by solar and wind power, has significant implications for global efforts to decarbonize the energy sector. While coal remains a substantial energy source, its share has been steadily declining, and this latest data indicates a clear trajectory towards a future powered by renewables. The shift impacts energy markets, geopolitical dynamics, and the pace of climate action, with further growth expected as renewable technologies become more affordable and accessible.
Concurrently,Snapchat is facing widespread criticism from its user base following the introduction of new storage fees. The social media platform announced it will begin charging users $7.99 per month for 100GB of cloud storage, impacting those who frequently save Snaps and Memories. The move sparked outrage online, with manny users expressing frustration over the added cost and questioning the value proposition of the platform.
The backlash highlights the growing tension between social media companies seeking to monetize their services and users who expect free or low-cost access to their platforms. Snapchat’s decision comes as other tech giants are also exploring new revenue streams, raising concerns about the future of free online services and the potential for increased costs for consumers. Users are now considering alternatives and questioning Snapchat’s long-term viability if it continues to alienate its core audience with paid features.
