Solar Becomes the Top Power Source in the EU for the First Time

For the first time in history, solar power has become the largest source of electricity in the European Union (EU), marking a major milestone in the continent’s transition to clean energy. In an additional boost to the clean energy space, wind power in the EU started the summer strongly, with the highest ever generation for May and June.

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According to a new analysis by Ember, solar energy generated 22.1 percent of the EU’s electricity in June 2025, totalling 45.4 terawatt-hours (TWh). This marks a 22 percent increase compared to June 2024. Nuclear followed closely at 21.8 percent (44.7 TWh), while wind energy came in third with 15.8 percent (32.4 TWh).

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Record-Breaking Solar Output Across Europe

At least 13 EU countries recorded their highest-ever solar generation in June. This surge is attributed to consistent solar installations over recent years and extended periods of hot, sunny weather. The record solar output helped the EU meet increased electricity demand caused by heatwaves across the continent.

Wind Power Also on the Rise

Wind generation in the EU also saw historic highs in May and June 2025, producing 33.7 TWh and 32.4 TWh, respectively.

This growth came after a slow start to the year and was supported by the commissioning of several large offshore wind farms.

Fossil Fuel Generation Drops Sharply

High renewable generation led to a record low for coal power, which accounted for only 6.1 percent (12.6 TWh) of the EU’s electricity in June 2025, down from 8.8 percent the previous year.

Germany and Poland — the bloc’s largest coal consumers — reported their lowest coal shares ever. Spain, Czechia, Bulgaria, and Denmark also saw record-low coal usage.

Total fossil fuel generation stood at 23.6 percent (48.5 TWh) in June 2025, just above the all-time low of 22.9 percent in May 2024.

However, fossil fuel use over the first half of 2025 was 13 percent higher than the same period last year due to increased gas generation.

Challenges from Drought and Growing Demand

The EU's hydropower output dropped by 15 percent compared to the first half of 2024 due to ongoing droughts, reducing its share to 12.5 percent (164 TWh).

Meanwhile, overall electricity demand continues to rise, with the EU consuming 1,313 TWh in the first six months of 2025 — a 2.2 percent increase from 2024.

According to Ember's Senior Energy Analyst, Chris Rosslowe, Europe’s shift to low-cost renewables is helping stabilise the energy market.

The next challenge lies in integrating battery storage and grid flexibility to extend renewable use during peak hours, when fossil fuels still dominate.