The European Union (EU) has reached a remarkable milestone in its journey towards renewable energy: solar power has officially overtaken coal in the electricity mix for the first time. In 2024, solar energy generated 11% of the EU’s electricity, edging ahead of coal, which dropped to just under 10%, according to a report by Ember Climate.
A Growing Share for Renewables
The EU’s overall electricity generation from renewable sources continues to rise, with wind and solar power contributing a combined 29% of the electricity mix in 2024. Wind energy maintained its share at 17.4%, even with the addition of 13 gigawatts of new capacity across the bloc. However, less favourable wind conditions meant no substantial growth in its overall contribution compared to previous years.
Solar energy, on the other hand, experienced notable growth, benefiting from increased installations across member states. This development underscores the EU’s push to scale up clean energy as it works towards its 2030 climate targets.
Decline of Fossil Fuels
Coal-fired power generation continues its downward trend, with 16 of the 17 EU countries that still rely on coal reporting reductions. Notable decreases were observed in Germany and Poland, the two largest coal consumers in the EU. Meanwhile, fossil gas usage also declined, dropping to 15.7% of the electricity mix compared to 16.9% in 2023.
This marks the fifth consecutive year of reduced reliance on fossil gas, further demonstrating the EU’s commitment to moving away from carbon-intensive energy sources.
The Role of Nuclear Energy
While renewables are taking centre stage, nuclear energy remains the largest single source of electricity in the EU. In 2024, nuclear power accounted for 23.7% of the bloc’s electricity, up slightly from 23% the previous year. This steady contribution highlights the ongoing role of nuclear in bridging the gap as renewable capacity scales up.
Ambitious Targets for the Future
The EU has set ambitious goals for its energy transition. Wind power, for example, is expected to account for 34% of the electricity mix by 2030. Achieving this target will require member states to address permitting challenges and streamline processes for new renewable projects.
A Landmark Year for Clean Energy
2024 stands out as a pivotal year for the EU’s energy transition, with solar power surpassing coal and continued momentum in reducing fossil fuel reliance. As the bloc accelerates its shift towards renewables, the progress made this year sets the stage for even more transformative changes in the coming decade.
Sources:
• Ember Climate Report, January 2025. Read here
• Solar Power Overtakes Coal in EU Electricity Mix,” Reuters, January 2025. Link
• Rising Star: Solar Power Outshines Coal in EU Electricity,” The Guardian, January 2025. Link
