This is the first time wind and solar have accounted for a larger share of electricity generation than fossil fuels for an entire month.
According to the data, wind and solar energy sources collectively contributed nearly a third of the EU's electricity in May, reaching 31% or 59 terawatt-hours (TWh). In contrast, fossil fuels generated a record-low 27% or 53 TWh during the same period.
Ember's Europe lead, Sarah Brown, expressed her enthusiasm, stating: "Europe's electricity transition has hit hyperdrive. Clean power keeps smashing record after record."
The achievement was primarily driven by the rapid growth of solar energy, a robust performance by wind power, and decreased electricity demand. Solar energy alone accounted for a record 14% of EU electricity in May, reaching an all-time high of 27 TWh. This surpassed the previous monthly solar records set in July last year. Notably, solar energy generation exceeded that of coal for the first time, with coal contributing only 10% of EU electricity in May.
While wind power constituted 17% of EU electricity in May, generating 32 TWh, it fell short of the record set in January this year when wind accounted for 23% or 54 TWh of EU electricity.
The exceptional performance of wind and solar power led to an all-time low in coal generation in May, contributing a mere 10% or 20 TWh of EU electricity. This record-low coal generation was slightly below the previous record set during the pandemic-induced lockdowns when coal power supplied slightly above 10% of EU electricity in April 2020. Additionally, fossil gas recorded its lowest share of generation since 2018, contributing only 15% of EU electricity during May.
The EU's green energy drive aligns with its commitment to combat climate change and transition to a sustainable, low-carbon future. Central to this drive are ambitious targets, such as the Renewable Energy Directive, which aims to achieve a 32% share of renewable energy in final energy consumption by 2030.
The EU's efforts also prioritize the development and deployment of clean energy sources, including wind, solar, hydropower, geothermal, and biomass, as essential contributors to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable energy generation.
To encourage the growth of renewable energy, the EU implements various support mechanisms such as feed-in tariffs, premium tariffs, and renewable energy certificates. Financial support and subsidies are provided to renewable energy projects, facilitating their development and deployment.
In parallel, the EU emphasizes energy efficiency measures to reduce energy consumption, ranging from energy-efficient building standards and appliance labeling to energy-saving initiatives and the promotion of smart grid technologies.
Furthermore, the EU aims to enhance the integration of energy markets across member states, creating a more efficient and interconnected energy system. This integration enables optimal utilization of renewable energy resources and facilitates cross-border electricity trading.
The EU actively supports research and innovation in green energy, driving technological advancements and cost reductions. Programs like Horizon Europe provide funding for research projects focused on renewable energy technologies and energy system integration.
Recognizing the importance of a just and inclusive transition, the EU ensures support for regions and industries heavily dependent on fossil fuels. This approach aims to guarantee a fair transition for workers and communities affected by the shift to renewable energy sources.
The EU's green energy drive aligns with its commitment to the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius. Through its policies, targets, and initiatives, the EU endeavors to lead the global transition to a sustainable and decarbonized energy system. (ILKHA)
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