Solar Becomes the Leading Source of Electricity in the EU for the First Time Ever

In June 2025, solar power became the largest source of electricity generation in the European Union, surpassing both nuclear and wind. According to the latest data from the energy think tank Ember, solar accounted for a record 22.1% of the EU’s electricity mix, ahead of nuclear (21.8%) and wind (15.8%).

“This is a strong signal of how fast Europe’s power system is transforming,” said Chris Rosslowe, Senior Energy Analyst at Ember.

This rapid progress was made possible by a combination of factors: exceptional solar conditions, increased demand, and the continued expansion of installed photovoltaic capacity across the continent.

National Highs Across the EU
At least 13 EU member states recorded all-time highs in solar generation during the month. Among them:

The Netherlands generated 40.5% of its electricity from solar
Greece — 35.1%
Hungary — over 30%
These national records demonstrate the growing maturity and scale of solar as a mainstream energy source across diverse European geographies.

Germany and Poland remain the primary coal consumers in the EU, producing 12.4% and 42.9% of their electricity from coal respectively. Notably, 10 EU countries did not generate any electricity from coal at all in June. Ireland officially shut down its last coal-fired power plant on June 20.

Wind and Gas Balancing the Grid
After a slow start to the year due to unfavorable weather, wind generation recovered slightly in June, though it remained behind solar. Gas use rose earlier in the year to compensate for lower hydro and wind output, reflecting the need for flexibility in the system.

Solar’s Rise in Context
In 2008, solar energy made up just 1% of EU renewable electricity generation. By 2023, that figure had grown to 20.5%. Now, in mid-2025, solar is the EU’s single largest source of electricity, underscoring the speed of the clean energy transition.

Looking forward, the next strategic challenge lies in scaling energy storage infrastructure and increasing grid flexibility. As solar becomes dominant during daylight hours, Europe’s power systems must ensure resilience and reliability during evening and nighttime demand peaks.

Sources:
Ember — Monthly Electricity Review, July 2025
Green Energy Times
European Commission

Global 100RE Ukraine welcomes this turning point and continues to advocate for a 100% renewable energy future in Ukraine and around the world.

More news — at 100re.org.ua.