Solar tops European electricity production, coal bottoms

Energy Diary - The European Union (EU) is expected to surpass nuclear and wind power in June 2025 to become the largest source of electricity generation for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the region's energy transition. Solar energy accounted for approximately 25% of electricity generation in the EU in June 2025. This marks the first time solar energy has become the largest source of electricity generation, surpassing nuclear (22%) and wind (18%).

COAL ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION AT HISTORICALLY LOW LEVEL

During the same period, coal's share of electricity generation fell to a historic low of 8%. This development is considered a critical achievement, reflecting the EU's progress towards renewable energy targets and carbon neutrality.

The EU's Emissions Trading System (ETS) and high carbon prices have made coal-fired electricity generation uneconomic.

The share of renewables has exceeded 50%

Solar and wind power together accounted for around 43% of EU electricity production in June 2025. Together with hydropower and other renewable sources, this figure exceeded 50%.

NETWORK INVESTMENT IS A MUST

Electricity transmission system operators in Europe face an investment gap of €250 billion over the next five years to renew and expand their networks.