For the first time in history, solar energy became the largest source of electricity in the European Union during June, according to a new report by energy think tank Ember. Solar power accounted for 22.1% of the EU’s electricity production—surpassing nuclear at 21.8% and wind at 15.8%. This milestone was driven by a combination of favorable weather conditions and increased solar capacity across the region. In total, solar panels generated 45.4 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity in June, marking a 22% rise compared to the same month in 2024. Thirteen EU countries, including solar leaders like Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain, broke monthly solar generation records, with the Netherlands producing over 40% of its electricity from solar alone.
While this achievement signals progress in the EU’s clean energy transition, some hurdles remain. Coal usage dropped to its lowest share ever, contributing only 6.1% to the power mix, down from 8.8% a year earlier. However, fossil fuels still made up around 23.6% of electricity production, as a reduction in hydropower and increased reliance on gas offset some renewable gains. Experts stress that to maintain and build on this solar success, the EU must invest in grid improvements, battery storage, and smarter energy systems to ensure a steady power supply when sunlight is limited. More