Full Breakdown
Historic Milestone: Wind and Solar Overtake Fossil Fuels in EU Power Generation
1/22/2026, 8:41:01 AM
Major Shift in Energy Generation
In 2025, wind and solar power generated more electricity than fossil fuels for the first time in the European Union, marking a significant milestone in the region's energy transition. According to Ember's European Electricity Review, wind and solar accounted for 30% of the EU's electricity generation, surpassing fossil fuels, which contributed 29%. This shift is seen as a critical step towards a cleaner energy system, driven largely by a remarkable 20% increase in solar generation, which alone provided 13% of the EU's electricity.
Background and Context
The transition to renewable energy in the EU has been influenced by decades of political decisions and strategic investments aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The historical reliance on coal, oil, and natural gas has been challenged by the growing urgency to address climate change and geopolitical vulnerabilities. The EU's Affordable Energy Action Plan emphasizes the need to cut energy costs and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, particularly in light of the ongoing instability in international energy markets.
Key Data and Statistics
The report highlights that renewables, including hydropower and biomass, accounted for nearly half (48%) of the EU's electricity in 2025. Coal generation fell to a historic low of 9.2%, with 19 EU countries producing either no coal power or less than 5% of their electricity from coal. Despite an 8% increase in gas generation due to a decline in hydropower, gas remains 18% below its 2019 peak. The EU's gas import bill for power rose to €32 billion in 2025, reflecting the financial pressures associated with fossil fuel dependency.
Criticism and Opposition
While the transition to renewables is celebrated, analysts caution against the EU's continued reliance on gas, which poses risks of energy blackmail from suppliers. Critics argue that the EU must accelerate investments in battery storage and grid modernization to fully capitalize on renewable energy potential and stabilize prices. Beatrice Petrovich, a lead author of the report, emphasized the need to question plans for new gas plants, suggesting they may become a burden for taxpayers.
Official Statements and Responses
Beatrice Petrovich stated, “The next priority for the EU should be to put a serious dent in reliance on expensive, imported gas,” highlighting the urgency of addressing fossil fuel dependency. The report also noted early signs of battery storage being used to manage electricity demand during peak hours, which could mitigate the need for gas during high-demand periods.
What's Next
Looking forward, the EU faces the challenge of expanding battery storage and enhancing electricity grids to accommodate the growing share of renewable energy. The successful integration of these technologies is essential for achieving energy independence and ensuring stable electricity prices. As the EU continues to navigate its energy transition, the focus will remain on reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing the resilience of its energy system.
