Solar overtakes coal in EU electricity mix for the first time

Solar energy has surged ahead of coal in the EU’s power sector, supplying 11% of the bloc’s electricity in 2024 compared to coal’s 10%, according to Ember’s latest European Electricity Review.

Overall, renewables now account for 47% of EU electricity—up from 34% in 2019—while fossil fuels have dropped to a historic low of 29%.

Hungary, Greece and Spain led the solar charge, with Hungary generating 25% of its electricity from solar last year. This rapid growth has lessened the EU’s reliance on imported gas and coal. Ember’s analysis suggests that without the additional wind and solar capacity added since 2019, the EU would have faced an extra €59 billion in import costs.

“Fossil fuels are losing their grip on EU energy,” remarked Dr Chris Rosslowe from Ember. However, analysts warn that the region must still invest heavily in wind power, grid upgrades, energy storage and smart electrification to meet rising demands and maintain the momentum behind the clean energy transition.