Brussels(The COW News Digital) Solar energy has emerged as the largest source of electricity generation in the European Union for the first time, accounting for more than 25 percent of the bloc’s total electricity production in June 2026, according to a new report by energy research organization Ember.
The report revealed that the European Union generated a record 52 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity from solar power in June 2026, representing around 25 percent of the region’s total monthly electricity output.
Solar power surpassed other major energy sources during the month, with nuclear energy contributing 21 percent, natural gas 15 percent, wind power 14 percent, hydropower 12 percent, and coal accounting for only 8 percent of electricity generation.
According to Ember’s analysis, solar energy capacity across the European Union has expanded rapidly in recent years. Between 2021 and 2025, solar power capacity increased by more than 20 percent annually on average. In 2025 alone, EU countries installed an additional 65.1 gigawatts of new solar capacity.
The report highlighted that solar energy played a crucial role in maintaining electricity supplies during periods of extreme heat, when demand for power increased due to rising temperatures. The growing contribution of solar generation helped reduce pressure on traditional energy sources during peak consumption periods.
Germany remained the leading country in solar energy adoption. The report stated that Germany generated 33 percent of its electricity from solar power in May 2026, with the share rising further to 36 percent in June.
Spain also recorded significant progress, producing 34 percent of its electricity from solar power in June 2026. Since 2019, Spain has added more than 40 gigawatts of combined wind and solar capacity, contributing to lower electricity costs for consumers.
Energy analysts say the rapid expansion of renewable energy reflects Europe’s broader efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, strengthen energy security, and achieve climate targets. The increasing role of solar power is expected to reshape Europe’s energy landscape by providing a cleaner and more sustainable source of electricity.
The latest figures indicate that renewable energy, particularly solar power, is becoming increasingly central to Europe’s electricity system as governments continue investing in clean energy infrastructure and technological innovation.
