Solar energy becomes a larger source of electricity in the EU than coal for the first time

The share of solar energy in the European energy mix increased by more than a fifth last year, making it good for 11 percent of the total energy supply. Together with wind energy (stable at 17 percent) and other renewable energy sources, almost half of European energy generation (47 percent) was green.

On the other hand, the share of fossil fuels decreased by 9 percent compared to 2023. This decline was evident in both coal (-16 percent, to 10 percent) and natural gas (-6 percent, to 16 percent). All fossil fuels together would therefore account for 29 percent of European electricity generation in 2024, the lowest share ever.

“Fossil fuels are losing their grip on European energy generation,” said Chris Rosslowe, lead author of the report. “At the start of the European Green Deal in 2019, few thought that the European energy transition would be where it is today; wind and sun are pushing coal to the margins and forcing gas into a structural decline.”

Ember also calculated that the growth of solar and wind energy over the past five years has resulted in fewer fossil fuel imports worth 59 billion euros.

However, the authors warn that it is still too early to declare victory. In particular, the level at which new wind energy is installed must increase significantly in the coming years.