The European Union has reached a new milestone, with a record 47% of its electricity generated from solar power and other renewable sources in 2024. This marks a significant step forward in the EU’s clean energy transition, further widening the gap between the bloc’s ambitious sustainability goals and the new U.S. administration’s increased focus on fossil fuels, according to the Associated Press.

Key Facts

Nearly 75% of the EU’s electricity is now produced without emitting greenhouse gases, with another 24% coming from nuclear power, according to a report by energy think tank Ember. This stands in stark contrast to countries like the U.S. and China, where around two-thirds of electricity is still derived from fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas.

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Experts are particularly encouraged by the EU’s progress in reducing fossil fuel use, especially as the U.S. appears poised to increase emissions under its new president. The administration has promised to lower gas prices, halt leases for wind projects, and roll back Biden-era incentives for electric vehicles.

Important Quote

“Fossil fuels are losing their influence on the EU’s energy mix. In 2024, solar will generate 11% of the EU’s electricity, surpassing coal, which has fallen below 10% for the first time. Clean wind power generated more electricity than gas for the second year in a row,” said Chris Roslow, an energy expert at Ember.

Tactical Insights

While 2024 data isn’t available for all countries, Ember’s data for 2023 shows that Brazil leads the world in renewable electricity, with nearly 89% of its energy coming from renewable sources, primarily hydroelectric power. Other leading countries include Canada at 66.5%, China at 30.6%, France at 26.5%, the U.S. at 22.7%, and India at 19.5%.