Solar Becomes Europe's Top Electricity Source

Solar power generated a record 52 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity across the European Union in June 2026, making it the bloc's largest source of electricity for the first time. This output represented 25% of all electricity consumed in the EU during that month, surpassing both wind and fossil fuels. The analysis, conducted by the energy think tank Ember, highlights a significant shift in Europe's energy landscape.

This record generation is attributed to a combination of factors, including increased solar capacity installations and favorable weather conditions across the continent. In June 2026, solar power's contribution to the EU's electricity mix exceeded that of wind power, which generated 48 TWh, and fossil fuels, which produced 43 TWh. This marks a pivotal moment in the EU's transition towards renewable energy sources.

The milestone underscores the accelerating growth of solar energy within the EU's power system. Ember's data indicates that solar power's share of the electricity mix has been steadily increasing over the past few years. The think tank's analysis is based on data from national grid operators and aggregators, providing a comprehensive overview of electricity generation across the EU member states.

This achievement positions solar energy as a key player in Europe's efforts to decarbonize its energy sector and meet its climate targets. The continued expansion of solar infrastructure, coupled with advancements in energy storage technologies, is expected to further solidify solar's role in providing clean and sustainable electricity to millions of European citizens.