EU Records Highest-Ever Use of Renewables for Powergen

Renewables have exceeded fossil fuels for electricity generation in the European Union (EU) for the first time, according to new research from London-based think-tank Ember.

During the first half of 2020, renewable energy sources — comprising wind, solar, hydro and bioenergy–, accounted for 40% of the EU’s electricity generation. In comparison, fossil fuels accounted for 37%.

The use of renewable energy sources increased 11% year-on-year, driven by new wind and solar generation installations in conjunction with favourable weather conditions.

However, the figures do not include the United Kingdom following its departure from the European Union, Kallanish Energy notes.

Wind and solar accounted for 21% of the EU’s power generation during the first half of this year, but recorded much higher levels in Denmark (69%), Ireland (49%) and Germany (42%). While Ember noted that electricity grids have adapted to the increased use of solar and wind, “negative prices are highlighting inflexibilities in supply and demand that need to be addressed.”

Hydropower and bioenergy accounted for 13% and 6% respectively of EU’s electricity generation during the period.

Fossil fuel use declined 18% year-on-year during the first half of 2020, primarily due to the lower energy demands as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and the increased use of renewable sources. During the same time, EU power sector carbon dioxide emissions declined approximately 23%.

“This marks a symbolic moment in the transition of Europe’s electricity sector. Renewables generated more electricity than fossil fuels, driven by wind and solar replacing coal. That’s fast progress from just nine years ago when fossil fuels generated twice as much as renewable,” said Dave Jones, senior electricity analyst at Ember.