The European Union is making significant progress in its energy transition, with 47.5% of electricity now coming from renewable energy sources in 2024, according to an analysis by the energy think tank Ember. The report highlights a dramatic decline in fossil fuel usage, as coal and gas continue to be replaced by cleaner alternatives.
The findings mark a major shift in the EU’s energy landscape, spurred by ambitious goals under the European Green Deal, a comprehensive strategy launched in 2019 to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Electricity generated from fossil fuels—including coal, gas, oil, and waste—accounted for just 29% of the EU's electricity mix in 2024, the lowest on record. Key highlights include:
These trends highlight the waning influence of fossil fuels on Europe’s power supply.
The increase in renewable energy generation has been particularly notable in solar and wind power:
"Electricity generation from solar power is increasing in all EU countries," the report noted, reflecting the widespread adoption of renewable technologies.
Nuclear power continues to play a significant role, contributing nearly 24% to the EU's electricity mix in 2024. While controversial, it remains a key part of the energy transition in many member states.
Chris Rosslowe, an analyst at Ember, emphasized the progress made since the launch of the European Green Deal:
"When the European Green Deal was launched in 2019, few would have thought that the energy transition in the EU could be so advanced."
The Green Deal, introduced in the last EU legislative period, aims to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. It includes reforms in energy, transport, industry, and agriculture to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.