Jakarta, INTI - For the first time, wind and solar energy generated more electricity than fossil fuels across the EU last year, according to data released on Thursday. The figures highlight the bloc’s ongoing transition toward low-carbon energy, even as some governments remain resistant.
Data from energy think tank Ember shows that wind and solar accounted for 30% of the EU’s electricity supply in 2025, slightly surpassing the 29% produced by fossil fuel-based power plants using coal, gas, and, at times, oil.
A 19% increase in solar capacity was the main driver behind record renewable energy output. This expansion compensated for lower hydropower generation due to drought, while gas-fired electricity production rose by 8% to cover remaining gaps, according to Ember.
Solar energy now supplies over one-fifth of total electricity in countries such as Hungary, Spain, and the Netherlands.
Europe’s power system is now dominated by low-carbon sources, with renewables and nuclear energy accounting for 71% of the EU’s electricity supply last year, according to the data.
Although sectors such as transport remain highly dependent on fossil fuels, the EU has steadily expanded clean energy use to meet climate goals and cut reliance on imported fuels, including those from Russia.
The energy transition has faced political resistance. Pressure from governments such as Germany and the Czech Republic led Brussels to dilute several key CO₂-reduction policies last year. Meanwhile, an EU agreement with President Donald Trump to significantly increase U.S. energy imports has raised doubts about Europe’s long-term plan to reduce oil and gas consumption.
Coal Declines, but Grid Constraints Drive Cost
Coal’s contribution to EU electricity fell to a historic low of 9.2%, with major users Germany and Poland both recording their lowest levels on record.
Despite rapid growth in clean power, Europe continues to struggle with high energy costs for households and industry. Limited investment in power grids has forced wind and solar plants to curtail production during peak output, wasting low-cost electricity and pushing prices higher.
Ember noted that price spikes last year coincided with surges in gas use and called on the EU to accelerate investment in grid infrastructure and battery storage to help stabilise electricity prices.
Conclusion
Europe’s electricity mix is now firmly anchored in low-carbon energy, marking a major milestone in its clean energy transition. Yet, political uncertainty and underinvestment in grids and storage remain key obstacles. To fully unlock the benefits of renewable power and stabilise energy prices, the EU must accelerate investment in modern grid infrastructure and battery storage while maintaining consistent climate policies.
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