Solar Energy Surpasses Coal in EU Electricity Production for the First Time

In 2024, solar energy accounted for 11% of the EU's electricity generation, while coal fell below 10%, marking a historic shift in the region's energy landscape.

Renewables contributed 47% of the EU's electricity in 2024, with solar energy leading the growth at 11% of the total mix.
Coal's share of electricity production dropped below 10%, its lowest level ever, as fossil fuels accounted for only 29% of the EU's energy mix.
The decline in coal and gas use saved the EU €59 billion in fossil fuel imports, reducing dependence on external energy sources, including Russia and the U.S.
Wind energy, at 17%, generated more electricity than gas for the second consecutive year, further solidifying the shift toward renewables.
Challenges remain in scaling up wind capacity, improving energy storage, and adapting electricity systems to manage intermittent renewable supply effectively.

Courrier International