In 2023, the EU experienced a significant decrease in coal, gas, and CO2 emissions, leading to a cleaner electricity mix than ever before, as renewables made substantial progress. Fossil fuels plummeted by a record 19%, reaching their lowest level at less than one third of the EU's electricity generation. Renewables surged to a record 44% share, surpassing 40% for the first time, with wind and solar playing a crucial role in this growth by generating a record 27% of EU electricity and achieving their largest annual capacity additions. Clean generation now accounts for more than two-thirds of EU electricity, double the share of fossil fuels, as hydro and nuclear also saw improvements alongside the rise of wind and solar energy.
The EU's transition away from fossil fuels continued to accelerate in 2023, with coal and gas experiencing declines, and coal plant closures on the horizon. Falling electricity demand, coupled with the growth of renewables, contributed to the reduction in fossil fuel generation. However, the trajectory of declining demand is not expected to continue due to increased electrification. To meet EU climate goals, renewables must keep pace with rising demand. The EU is making significant progress towards a clean power system, with wind and solar becoming the backbone. The importance of enablers such as grids, storage, and demand-side response is becoming increasingly evident as the shift towards renewable energy intensifies.
https://ember-climate.org/insights/research/european-electricity-review-2024/