Solar Surpasses Coal: A Milestone in the EU’s Energy Transition

The EU's energy revolution hit a transformative milestone in 2024—solar power overtook coal, delivering 11% of the bloc’s electricity, while coal fell below 10%. This marks a dramatic shift in the power mix, with renewables like wind and solar now making up nearly half (47%) of EU electricity, a leap from 34% in 2019.

Fossil fuels, once dominant, are fading fast. Total fossil generation dropped to a historic low of 29%, thanks to policy-driven innovations like rooftop solar, agri-PV, and record investments in clean energy. Countries such as Hungary, Greece, and Spain have led the solar surge, while Germany has been experimenting with balcony installations. Yet challenges remain: wind sector growth lags behind targets, and grid updates are vital to sustain momentum.

Why It Matters

Beyond cutting emissions, the shift to renewables shields against fossil price shocks, offering affordable, homegrown energy to EU households and businesses. Without solar and wind growth since 2019, the EU would have faced €59 billion in additional gas and coal costs.

What’s Next?

The focus now is on accelerating wind energy development and expanding battery storage and electrification. The progress so far proves that bold action works—continued commitment can cement a cleaner, more secure energy future.

Read the full article to uncover how Europe is redefining its energy landscape and what it will take to finish the transition.