Wind and solar energy generated 30% of the electricity in the European Union in the first half of 2024, surpassing fossil fuels for the first time, according to a report by Ember.
The Ember report reveals that electricity generation from coal, oil, and gas fell by 17% in the first six months of 2024 compared to the previous year. This has resulted in a one-third reduction in sector emissions since 2022.
Chris Rosslowe, an analyst at Ember, stated: “We are witnessing a historic shift in the energy sector.” Thirteen member states, including Germany and Belgium, generated more electricity from wind and solar energy than from fossil fuels for the first time.
The reduction in fossil fuel use occurred despite a slight increase in electricity demand following the pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
This progress is crucial for Europe to meet its climate targets. Andrea Hahmann, a scientist at the Technical University of Denmark, emphasized that “renewable energy targets are achievable with the right policy measures.”
Despite current challenges, the EU installed 16.2 GW of new wind capacity in 2023, although double that amount was needed to meet climate targets.