In June 2025, solar energy reached a historic milestone in the European Union: for the first time, it led the electricity supply of the bloc, with a share of 22.1%, according to data from the energy group Ember.
This figure surpassed nuclear energy and marked an unprecedented collapse in the use of fossil fuels, in a context of seasonal increase in demand due to heatwaves.
“Europe is becoming a solar power,” said Chris Rosslowe, an Ember analyst.
National records and coal setback
At least 13 Member States broke their historical monthly solar generation records:
- Netherlands: 40.5%
- Greece: 35.1%
- Belgium, Croatia, France, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, and Slovakia also reached new peaks
Meanwhile, electricity generation from coal dropped to 6.1%, the lowest level ever recorded in the bloc’s history:
- Germany: 12.4% of the total (historical minimum)
- Poland: still at 42.9%, but declining
- The Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Denmark also marked new lows
- Ireland closed its last coal plant on June 20
Spain and Slovakia announced the definitive withdrawal from coal in 2025.
Citizen participation and community models
According to the European Commission, nine out of ten Europeans support the increase in renewable energies. Solar growth is linked to the rise of:
- Residential installations on urban roofs
- Community energy plans with discounts, shared ownership, and local job creation
- Projects that involve communities from early stages and distribute economic benefits
This approach strengthens the social legitimacy of the energy transition and accelerates its territorial implementation.
Productive reuse and solar energy in former mining sites
A study by Global Energy Monitor revealed that over 1.2 million hectares of abandoned coal mines could be turned into solar parks with enough capacity to supply a country like Germany.
Wind energy also shows sustained growth, with a share close to 16% in the months of May and June.
Structural challenges and future roadmap
Despite progress, fossil fuels still account for a quarter of the electricity mix. Experts point out three key priorities to move forward:
- Energy storage in batteries
- Smart electrical grids
- Efficient demand planning
“Low-cost renewables are helping to stabilize the European system against fossil volatility. The next big opportunity lies in improving storage and flexibility to cover hours without sun or wind,” concluded Rosslowe.
