In a historic shift toward clean energy, solar power has officially overtaken coal as a source of electricity in the European Union (EU) for the first time in 2024, according to a report by climate think tank Ember. This milestone reflects Europe’s accelerated push for renewable energy, driven by ambitious climate policies and the need for energy independence.

Solar energy has become the fastest-growing power source in the EU, contributing 11% of total electricity generation. The report highlights a broader trend—renewables now account for 47% of the EU’s electricity mix, up from 34% in 2019. In contrast, coal’s share has plummeted to just 10%, marking a significant decline in fossil fuel dependency.

“Fossil fuels are losing their grip on EU energy,” said Chris Rosslowe, an energy expert at Ember. The report also notes that gas generation has fallen for the fifth consecutive year, bringing overall fossil-fueled power to a historic low of 29%.

The EU’s shift to renewables has been shaped by several critical factors:

The European Green Deal – Enacted in 2019, this policy framework has accelerated investments in clean energy, prioritizing wind and solar.

Russia-Ukraine War & Energy Crisis – Soaring gas prices following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine forced Europe to find cheaper, cleaner alternatives, leading to a rapid expansion of renewable energy.

Reduced Dependence on Russian Gas – The EU’s declining gas demand has significantly reduced its reliance on Russian fuel imports, strengthening energy security.

Economic Benefits – Increased wind and solar capacity has helped the EU avoid fossil fuel imports worth nearly $61 billion (€58.6 billion) since 2019, reinforcing its commitment to self-sufficiency.

The EU’s renewable energy progress stands in stark contrast to the United States’ energy policy shift under President Donald Trump. After pulling out of the Paris Agreement, Trump has doubled down on oil and gas expansion, declaring that the U.S. has the “largest reserves” and intends to use them. As the world’s second-largest greenhouse gas emitter, the U.S.’s fossil fuel push raises concerns over global climate commitments.

“The EU’s leadership in clean power is more critical than ever,” said Pieter de Pous, an energy analyst at E3G. “This sends a clear message that Europe’s energy future will be built on clean power, not gas imports.”

What’s Next for the EU?

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed Europe’s dedication to climate action, stating that the bloc will “keep working with all nations that want to protect nature and stop global warming.”

With renewables on the rise, coal in decline, and energy independence strengthening, the EU is setting a bold example for the world. Solar power has arrived as a dominant force, and if this trend continues, the vision of a fully clean energy future may soon become a reality.