Analysis: Solar power becomes EU's top electricity source in June

Solar power became the European Union’s largest single source of electricity in June, generating a record 25% of the bloc’s power, according to an analysis published on Tuesday by energy think tank Ember.

Solar accounted for a larger share than nuclear power, which generated 21% of EU electricity, followed by natural gas at 15%, wind at 14%, hydropower at 12% and coal at 8%, Ember said.

It was only the third time solar energy had been the EU’s leading electricity source, after June 2025 and May 2026. The record reflected rapid growth over the past five years, with solar accounting for just 10% of EU electricity generation in June 2021.

Germany also recorded its highest-ever share of solar power in May and June, with solar accounting for 33% and 36% of electricity generation respectively, according to the report.

Ember said the surge in solar production coincided with relatively high electricity demand in May and June, driven partly by increased cooling needs during exceptional heatwaves.

At the same time, solar energy helped maintain electricity supplies while other energy sources were pushed to their limits by hot and low-wind conditions, Ember said.