Europe has reached a groundbreaking milestone, generating more electricity from solar and wind than from coal and gas in 2024. According to energy think tank Ember, renewables contributed 47% of the EU’s electricity last year, with fossil fuel usage dropping by nearly 9%.
The European Green Deal, initiated in 2019, has driven this transition. Solar capacity has tripled, and wind capacity has grown by 37% in five years, preventing around 460 million tonnes of CO2 emissions. This shift saved the EU an estimated €59 billion (£50 billion) in fossil fuel import costs during the same period.
“Fossil fuels are losing their grip on EU energy,” said Dr Chris Rosslowe, a senior analyst at Ember. He highlighted that wind and solar are pushing coal to the margins while reducing the dependency on gas.
Ember’s European Electricity Review revealed solar power now generates 11% of the EU’s electricity, with every member country seeing growth. Dr Beatrice Petrovich of Ember noted, “This system reduces vulnerability to fossil price shocks and provides affordable energy.”
However, experts warn that the progress must accelerate to meet climate goals. Challenges in the wind sector must be addressed, with annual installations needing to double by 2030. “We need more flexibility, storage, and smart electrification,” said Walburga Hemetsberger of SolarPower Europe.
This report arrives amid the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, with EU leaders vowing to stay committed to global climate efforts. The EU’s strides mark a crucial step toward a clean energy future.