In a significant development, wind and solar power have surpassed fossil fuels in generating electricity in Europe. According to new analysis by energy think tank Ember, wind turbines and solar panels produced 30% of the European Union’s electricity in the first six months of 2024. This marks the first time renewable energy has overtaken fossil fuel generation, which fell to 27%.
This shift to renewables is part of a major effort by EU member states to move away from polluting power sources and meet climate goals. Despite an increase in electricity demand during the first half of 2024, fossil fuel generation dropped to an all-time low of 343 terawatt hours (TWh). This is a significant decrease from over 500 TWh in 2022.
Chris Rosslowe, a data analyst at Ember, stated, “The first half of the year shows fossil generation’s narrowing role in the power sector, and gains for renewables that are beyond temporary variations in conditions.” He emphasized that this is a historic shift happening rapidly. Rosslowe added, “If EU member states can keep up momentum on wind and solar deployment, then freedom from fossil power reliance will truly start to come into view.”
These findings align with a forecast made by Ember last year, predicting a decline in fossil fuel usage due to record-breaking renewable energy production. A separate report by researchers at the University of Exeter and University College London in October also supports this trend. The report stated that solar energy had reached an “irreversible tipping point” and is on track to become the world’s main energy source by 2050.
Femke Nijsse, a scientist from the University of Exeter involved in the research, commented, “The recent progress of renewables means that fossil fuel-dominated projections are no longer realistic.” She highlighted that solar photovoltaics are projected to dominate the global energy mix by the middle of this century.
Ember’s latest report reveals that 13 EU member states now generate more electricity from solar and wind than from fossil fuels. In some countries, more than 50% of their electricity demand is met by these renewable power sources.
This shift signifies a major milestone in the global transition towards clean energy. It underscores the growing importance of renewables in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. The continued expansion of wind and solar power is crucial for achieving a sustainable and energy-secure future for Europe and the world.
