The report examined so-called “firm” renewable systems – combinations of solar panels, wind farms and battery storage capable of providing round-the-clock electricity.

In regions with strong sunlight and wind resources, solar power paired with batteries now costs between about €50 and €75 per megawatt-hour, the report found.

That compares with about €60 to €75 per megawatt-hour for new coal plants in China and more than €88 globally for new gas power.

A steep drop in battery prices has helped drive the change. Since 2010, the cost of battery storage has fallen by 93 per cent, according to IRENA, while solar panel costs dropped by 87 per cent and onshore wind costs by 55 per cent.