As of 2025, the European Union (EU) is making significant strides towards a cleaner electricity grid, with more than 70% of its electricity consumption stemming from low-carbon sources. Nuclear energy is a crucial player, contributing almost a quarter to this sustainable mix. Wind power follows with nearly 18%, while hydropower and solar add around 15% and 12% respectively. Despite these impressive figures, fossil fuel sources still account for over a quarter of electricity consumption, with gas making up about 15%, followed by coal at 10%. Biofuels contribute a small portion, close to 4%. The continued reliance on fossil fuels poses challenges in the light of climate goals, emphasizing the need for further expansion of clean energy avenues in the region.
Is Electricity Growing in EU?
Electricity consumption in the EU has seen a downward trend from its peak in 2008, recorded at 6865 kWh per person, to the current level of 5708 kWh per person. This decline is concerning, particularly in the context of a long-term vision where electrification is key in addressing environmental challenges. Even more concerning is the recent decrease in low-carbon electricity generation from its peak in 2024. The drop of 191 kWh per person from last year should serve as a wake-up call. Europe must not only reverse this trend but also ensure that its citizens have access to abundant, clean electricity to power future innovations and sustainable living.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, the EU should focus on expanding existing clean energy sources, especially nuclear, wind, and solar, as they are already contributors of large electricity volumes. Drawing from successful examples, France and Slovakia demonstrate the potential for nuclear energy to compose significant portions of national electricity — 69% and 64% respectively. For wind energy, Iowa is a leading example where wind provides over 60% of the state's electricity, proving its viable scalability. Additionally, regions like Lebanon and Nevada highlight how substantial gains have been made through solar energy deployment, accounting for about 31% and 29% of electricity respectively. By harnessing these insights, the EU can enhance its clean energy strategy.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in the EU showcases periods of rapid growth in nuclear energy. Significant expansions occurred in the early 1980s, with notable increments such as 80 TWh in 1981 and over 100 TWh in 1984 and 1985. However, the trend has been bumpy, with the early 21st century witnessing declines, particularly noticeable post-2009 with notable decreases like nearly 60 TWh in that year and last year's dramatic drop of 122.5 TWh in 2022. Similarly, hydroelectric production has faced ups and downs, experiencing multiple declines, the most severe being a 72.3 TWh drop in 2022. Wind and solar energy have recently gained momentum, with solar seeing an uplift of more than 50 TWh in 2024. Recognizing these dynamics underlines the importance of bolstering stable and consistent growth in low-carbon electricity, particularly through nuclear and other sustainable sources.