Solar power became the European Union's largest source of electricity for the first time in June, generating 22.1% of the EU's electricity and surpassing nuclear and wind. This milestone was driven by record sunshine and continued solar installations, while coal's contribution fell to an all-time low. In Canada, solar still makes up a small share of electricity generation but is growing rapidly.
Solar was the leading source of electricity in the EU last month, says report
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Solar power became the European Union's largest source of electricity for the first time in June, generating 22.1% of the EU's electricity and surpassing nuclear and wind. This milestone was driven by record sunshine and continued solar installations, while coal's contribution fell to an all-time low. In Canada, solar still makes up a small share of electricity generation but is growing rapidly.
Trending- 1 June: Solar becomes the leading source of electricity in the EU for the first time.
- 2 First half of 2025: Fossil fuel usage grew 13% in the EU, and electricity demand rose 2.2%.
- 3 Last decade: Solar power in Canada has seen growth rates of about 13% year over year.
- Solar power becoming the leading electricity source in the EU marks a significant milestone in the energy transition.
- Record low contribution from coal in the EU.
- Continued growth of solar power in Canada, despite its small current share.
- Highlights the need for expanded battery storage and grid flexibility in Europe to reduce reliance on fossil fuels during non-solar hours.
What: Solar power generated 22.1% of the EU's electricity in June, becoming the largest source, followed by nuclear (21.8%) and wind (15.8%). At least 13 EU countries, including Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands, recorded highest-ever monthly solar generation. Coal's share of the EU electricity mix fell to a record low of 6.1% in June. Despite record solar and wind output, fossil fuel usage in the first half of 2025 grew 13% due to a 19% increase in gas generation offsetting weak hydro and wind earlier in the year. Electricity demand in the EU rose 2.2% in the first half of the year. In Canada, solar accounts for about 1% of electricity generation but is growing at about 13% annually, with hydropower making up 56% and nuclear 16%.
When: June (latest data); last month; first half of 2025; last year (comparison); last decade (Canada).
Where: European Union (EU), Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Poland, Canada.
Why: Record sunshine and continued solar installations pushed solar output. The decline in coal is part of a broader energy transition. Increased gas generation was needed to offset weak hydro and wind output earlier in the year.
How: Increased solar panel installations and favorable weather conditions (record sunshine) led to higher solar electricity generation. Policy shifts and economic factors (e.g., high gas prices, falling solar prices) are driving the transition.