As a domain expert in energy and environmental studies, I have been closely monitoring the global energy landscape. The main source of electricity in the world has been shifting over the years due to technological advancements, policy changes, and a growing awareness of the environmental impact of energy production.

Currently, the primary source of electricity globally is still coal. Coal-fired power plants have been the backbone of the global electricity supply for decades due to their reliability and the abundance of coal reserves. However, the dominance of coal is being challenged by a rapid increase in the use of natural gas, which is considered cleaner and more efficient. Natural gas emits less carbon dioxide and other pollutants compared to coal when burned for power generation.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has indeed announced that electricity generation from renewable sources has overtaken natural gas to become the second-largest source of electricity worldwide. This is a significant milestone, reflecting the global transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Renewables such as wind, solar, hydro, and biomass are increasingly being integrated into the energy mix due to their environmental benefits and the falling costs of technology.

In Europe, the emphasis on renewable energy is particularly pronounced. The European Union has set ambitious targets for renewable energy adoption, and as a result, wind and solar power have become the primary renewable sources for electricity generation on the continent. The growth of wind energy has been particularly notable, with large-scale offshore and onshore wind farms contributing significantly to the electricity supply.

However, it's important to note that the electricity landscape varies greatly by region. While coal and natural gas remain dominant in many parts of the world, other regions are leading the way in renewable energy adoption. For instance, countries like Brazil have a significant share of their electricity generated from hydroelectric power, while others are exploring the potential of geothermal and ocean energy.

The future of electricity generation is likely to be increasingly diversified, with a continued push towards renewables and the development of new technologies such as nuclear fusion and advanced batteries for energy storage. The global energy sector is at a critical juncture, with the need to balance economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability.

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Electricity generation from renewable sources has overtaken natural gas to become the second largest source of electricity worldwide, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has announced. In Europe, the main renewables used to generate electricity are wind and solar power.Aug 19, 2015read more >>