Story perspectives

EU Solar Growth Slows, Threatening Decarbonization Goals

10/31/2025

Summary

EU Solar Growth Declines

The European Union's solar generation capacity reached 65.5 GW last year, a record, but growth slowed.
Growth fell to 4.4%, and 2025 installations are expected to decline, the first drop in a decade.
The slower expansion risks undermining the EU's decarbonization goals that rely on solar and wind energy.
Poland relies on coal for 57% of its electricity, and the government plans to lift the price freeze next year.

Summary

Vattenfall's Profit Surge

Vattenfall AB reports a significant profit increase driven by improved price hedging and nuclear operations.
Electricity prices in northern Sweden fell by more than 50%, reducing Vattenfall's hydro revenues.
Naturgy reports a 5.6% rise in net profit, attributed to higher gas and electricity prices across Europe.
Vattenfall is advancing nuclear projects and renewable energy initiatives, including offshore wind and solar power, to support the transition to a fossil-free energy system.

History

Historical Context

The 2009 European Union Renewable Energy Directive set a target for member states to achieve a 20% share of renewable energy by 2020. By that year, the EU's solar capacity reached 130 GW, reflecting substantial growth. However, Poland's reliance on coal for 57% of its electricity and a recent slowdown in renewable growth threaten the EU's long-term sustainability and energy transition goals.

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EU Solar Growth Declines

The European Union's solar generation capacity reached 65.5 GW last year, a record, but growth slowed.
Growth fell to 4.4%, and 2025 installations are expected to decline, the first drop in a decade.
The slower expansion risks undermining the EU's decarbonization goals that rely on solar and wind energy.
Poland relies on coal for 57% of its electricity, and the government plans to lift the price freeze next year.

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