Solar power overtakes coal use in EU for first time
A new report from the energy think tank Ember reveals a significant shift in the EU’s energy landscape. Solar power generation surpassed coal for the first time in 2024, accounting for 11% of the bloc’s electricity, while coal generation fell below 10%.
This marks a significant milestone in the EU’s transition to renewable energy sources.
The report, “European Electricity Review 2024,” analyzes electricity generation data across all EU member states. Key findings include:
- Renewables Dominance: Wind and solar power combined generated nearly half (47%) of the EU’s electricity in 2024, surpassing fossil fuels.
- Coal’s Decline: Coal generation has plummeted, falling from the third-largest power source in 2019 to sixth in 2024.
- Gas in Retreat: Gas generation also declined for the fifth consecutive year, despite a slight increase in overall electricity demand.
- Reduced Fossil Fuel Reliance: The surge in renewable energy has significantly reduced the EU’s dependence on imported fossil fuels, mitigating the impact of volatile energy prices.
“Fossil fuels are losing their grip on EU energy,” said Dr. Chris Rosslowe, senior analyst at Ember. “The EU’s energy transition is progressing rapidly, driven by the growth of wind and solar power.”
While acknowledging these significant achievements, the report emphasizes the need for continued efforts to accelerate the deployment of wind and solar energy, particularly in the wind sector, to ensure a secure and sustainable energy future for the EU.
“This milestone underscores the importance of continued investment in renewable energy sources and the development of flexible energy solutions,” said Walburga Hemetsberger, CEO of SolarPower Europe. “The EU’s competitiveness hinges on its ability to embrace a clean energy future.”
https://ember-energy.org/latest-insights/european-electricity-review-2025/
