Key facts
- Solar power provided a record 25% of the EU's electricity in June 2026, generating 52 TWh.
- Solar was the largest single source of power in the EU for the month, exceeding nuclear, gas, wind, and hydro.
- Spain achieved over a third (34%) of its power generation from solar in June 2026.
- Germany's solar generation reached 36% in June 2026, with balcony solar kits becoming popular and decreasing in price.
- Poland generated nearly a quarter (24%) of its electricity from solar in June 2026, despite its historical reliance on coal.
Solar power reached a new milestone in the European Union in June 2026, generating a record 52 TWh and accounting for 25% of the bloc's total electricity supply. This marks the first time solar has become the largest single source of power in the EU for a month, surpassing nuclear (21%), gas (15%), wind (14%), and hydro (12%). Coal generated just 8% of the EU's power in June.
This surge in solar generation is attributed to rapid installation rates, with 65.1 GW of new capacity added in 2025, and coincides with high summer power demand, partly driven by heatwaves. Solar has become an essential part of Europe's power system, offering a low-cost and quickly deployable domestic energy source.
Spain is leading the renewable energy revolution, with solar generating over a third (34%) of its power in June 2026 for the first time. The country has significantly invested in clean energy since 2019, doubling its wind and solar capacity. This transition has led to reduced electricity bills for Spanish households, with savings estimated at €10 per month. Spain also reported zero coal-fired power generation in August 2025.
Germany has also seen substantial solar growth, reaching 36% of its electricity generation in June. The popularity of plug-in balcony solar systems, which have halved in price, is contributing to this trend. These systems allow individuals to generate their own power and reduce reliance on the grid, with potential cost recoupment in two to six years.
Poland, traditionally a coal-dependent nation, is also rapidly increasing its solar capacity, generating nearly a quarter (24%) of its electricity from solar in June 2026. In June 2025, renewables collectively surpassed coal for the first time in Poland's energy mix. However, challenges remain in removing regulatory barriers for renewable energy development, particularly for onshore wind.