Solar Power Surges in the EU: A Quarter of Power from Solar for the First Time

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In a groundbreaking milestone, solar power has become the EU's largest single source of power, providing a quarter of electricity in June.

TL;DR
• Solar power provided a quarter of EU electricity in June 2026 for the first time.
• This milestone follows rapid growth in solar installations across the EU.
• Solar has become the EU's largest single source of power, ahead of nuclear, gas, wind, and hydro.

Summary
Solar power reached a historic milestone in June 2026, supplying 25% of the EU’s electricity for the first time and becoming the bloc’s largest single source of energy.
• Solar generation hit 52 TWh, surpassing the previous 47 TWh record and outpacing nuclear, gas, wind, and hydro.
• Rapid installation growth—65.1 GW of new capacity in 2025—has driven a 20% annual increase, making solar the fastest‑growing source.
• 18 EU member states set new monthly solar share records, with Spain at 34%, Germany at 36%, and Poland at 24%, illustrating widespread adoption.
• Heatwave‑induced cooling demand amplified solar’s role, stabilizing supply when other sources struggled.
• Policy support, such as Spain’s renewable incentives, has reduced consumer costs and accelerated deployment.

The June record underscores the accelerating shift toward low‑cost, quickly deployable renewable energy across Europe. Solar’s dominance in a single month reflects both technological maturity and supportive regulatory frameworks that enable rapid scaling. The trend is expected to continue as governments and consumers prioritize resilient, affordable power.

Solar’s growth trajectory demonstrates how high‑volume installations can transform national grids, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and enhance energy security. Continued investment and policy alignment will be critical to sustain this momentum and achieve broader decarbonisation goals.

As solar power continues to surge in the EU, what does this mean for the future of the EU's energy system?