Solar Power Becomes the Largest Source of Electricity in Europe

For the first time in EU history, solar energy has generated more electricity than any other source.

According to data from the energy think tank Ember, solar power accounted for 22.1% of the EU’s total electricity generation in June 2025 — surpassing fossil fuels and even nuclear power by a significant margin.

A record 13 EU countries reached their highest-ever share of solar energy, including Belgium, Croatia, France, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, and Slovakia. Ten EU member states used no coal power at all. Spain and Slovakia are also set to phase out coal entirely by the end of 2025.

Remarkably, back in 2008, solar energy made up just 1% of Europe’s renewable energy mix. Today, it has grown to 22.1%.

Another positive trend: wind power accounted for nearly 16% of the EU’s electricity in both May and June — the highest share ever recorded for these months.