REM: Solar energy has overtaken hard coal in the EU energy mix for the first time

Solar energy has overtaken hard coal in the EU as a source of electricity for the first time, Eurostat reported on August 20.

Solar power accounted for 210,249 GWh of the EU's total electricity production in 2022, surpassing the 205,693 GWh generated by hard coal, says Eurostat.

"This milestone reflects the increasing viability of renewable energy sources in meeting Europe's electricity demands," said a Eurostat spokesperson.

As reported by bne IntelliNews, China recently passed the same milestone as wind and solar overtook coal in its energy mix as well.

Poland and the Czech Republic remain the only EU countries still producing hard coal, with their industries heavily dependent on this traditional energy source. However, the broader trend across the bloc shows a marked decline in coal consumption.