Solar and wind beat coal for first time: BBC Learning English from the News
BBC Learning English • 2025-10-08T13:38:13Z • 6:20 • intermediate • News
Lead
In a groundbreaking shift for energy production, renewable sources like solar and wind have officially surpassed coal for the first time ever! Let's dive into the details of this significant news story.
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Vocabulary
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surpass
/sərˈpæs/
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Definition
to be more than or to exceed; to go beyond in amount, extent, or degree.
Example
The estimated global population has now surpassed eight billion.
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primary source
/ˈpraɪˌmɛri sɔrs/
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Definition
the source from which the largest amount of something comes.
Example
Cars are the primary source of pollution in this city.
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demand
/dɪˈmænd/
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Definition
the desire of consumers to purchase goods and services at given prices.
Example
High energy bills have led to demand for more efficient heating systems.
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generate
/ˈdʒɛnəˌreɪt/
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Definition
to produce or create something, often used in the context of energy or electricity.
Example
Solar and wind power now generate more electricity than coal.
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renewable
/rɪˈnuːəbl/
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Definition
relating to a resource that can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar or wind energy.
Example
Renewable energy sources are essential for reducing carbon emissions.
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overtake
/ˌoʊvərˈteɪk/
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Definition
to catch up with and pass; to exceed in progress or achievement.
Example
Renewables have overtaken coal as the world's primary source of electricity.
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