EU Achieves Record Low in Fossil Fuel Use, Boosts Renewables

In a landmark year, the European Union saw a significant drop in fossil fuel electricity generation, with renewable sources reaching new heights.

The EU recorded a historic decline in fossil fuel power generation in 2023, with coal and gas electricity falling by 26% and 15% respectively.
Renewable energy sources, particularly wind and solar, now constitute 44% of the EU's electricity mix, marking the highest share to date.
Wind energy alone generated 18% of the EU's electricity in 2023, surpassing gas for the first time.
Electricity demand in the EU fell by 3.4% in 2023, attributed to efficiency gains and reduced industrial power use.
The European Commission recommends cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, aiming for net-zero by 2050.