3 - Solar is EU's Biggest Power Source + Challenges and Opportunities of Transitioning to Renewables

Solar Energy, EU 2025

Became the union's largest energy source at 22.1% in June 2025, for the first time ever

Marks a shift towards clean, domestic power sources

Why Did Solar Power Become #1?

Weather Conditions: Heatwaves boosted solar output alongside energy demands

Technology Expansion: Years of continued renewables development and investment across the continent

Result: 13 countries hit new solar power highs in June 2025 with a low usage of traditional fossil fuels

Fossil fuel usage is just above the record low (22.9%) from May 2024

Coal Hits Record Lows, Fossil Fuels Phasing Out

Between 2024 and 2025, the percentage of coal generation making up EU electricity fell from 8.8% to 6.1%, a record low

Germany and Poland are main contributors

However, fossil fuels are still needed during climate events (e.g., an early 2025 drought which cut hydropower by 15%, forcing a 19% rise in gas generation)

Benefits for EU's Future

Increased energy security, less reliance on external suppliers (e.g., Russia)

Lower prices as energy is domestically produced

Positioned as world leader on sustainable energy usage, inspiring others to follow suit

Challenges for EU's Future

Energy storage issues, especially at night and throughout the winter

Ensuring continued financing is sustainable

Consistent supply in sudden weather fluctuations, which are less predictable due to climate change

How do we Make the Transition Less Complex?

Technological, environmental, and geopolitical factors

Investment in infrastructure, investment into technological innovation and R&D, energy efficiency measures, policy support/regulatory frameworks, global cooperation with collective action

Technological Challenges of the Transition

Solar technology has an efficiency of 26% and a lifespan of 20-25 years

Alternative energy that is inefficient and unstable is not market ready

Requires batteries for 24/7 energy and takes up significant land space

Difficult to dispose of and recycle technology

Geopolitical Challenges of the Transition

For the global south, renewables can act as Western coercion

GS not main contributors of GHG emissions, and have not benefited or developed as GN has

Switching energy sources would mean stalling the rise out of poverty and inequality

Opportunities for Equality in the Transition

Global collaboration would mean a smoother transition (e.g., solar is more efficient in warm climates, wind more suitable for the north)