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Solar just became Europe’s biggest source of electricity – here’s the milestone it hit
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Solar power became the largest source of electricity in the European Union for the first time in June 2026, generating a record 52 terawatt-hours (TWh) and supplying 25% of the bloc’s electricity, according to energy think tank Ember. This milestone marks the first time solar has provided a quarter of the EU’s monthly power, surpassing nuclear (21%), gas (15%), wind (14%), hydro (12%), and coal (8%). The achievement underscores solar’s rapid ascent in Europe’s energy mix, driven by policy support, declining costs, and growing installation rates.
It is only the third time solar has topped all other power sources in the EU, following June 2025 and May 2026. However, this month set a new record, beating May’s previous high of 47 TWh and a 23% share. Ember’s analysis shows solar generation has grown by more than 20% annually between 2021 and 2025, making it Europe’s fastest-growing energy source. The EU added 65.1 gigawatts of new solar capacity in 2025 alone, propelling this growth.
The record coincided with intense summer heatwaves across Europe, which boosted electricity demand for air conditioning. Solar panels capitalized on long, sunny days to generate abundant power, helping offset weaker output from other sources during hot, still weather. This dynamic highlights solar’s growing role in meeting peak summer demand while providing grid stability.
The implications extend beyond generation figures. In Spain, solar supplied 34% of electricity in June, helping shield consumers from price spikes following the US-Israel conflict with Iran, saving households an estimated €10 per month on electricity bills, according to Ember. Germany set a new record with 36% solar share, while Poland, one of the EU’s largest coal users, generated 24% of its electricity from solar, adding over 20 GW of capacity since 2020.
“Solar’s rise has been truly stratospheric, beating prediction after prediction,” said Chris Rosslowe, senior analyst at Ember. “In just a few years solar has gone from a small player to an essential part of Europe’s power system, as governments and citizens look for low-cost, quick-to-install domestic power sources.” This sentiment reflects broad political and public support for renewable energy across the continent.
Looking ahead, solar is poised for continued expansion. So far in 2026, 18 EU countries have set new monthly records for solar’s share of electricity. With installations accelerating and costs falling, solar is expected to maintain its position as the fastest-growing power source, playing a critical role in Europe’s energy transition and climate goals. The June record is likely to be broken again as summer heat and policy momentum persist.
