Spain leads Europe in photovoltaic growth

A record-breaking year for solar energy

by Lorraine Williamson
photovoltaics Spain

Spain has emerged as a frontrunner in Europe’s renewable energy revolution, with photovoltaics growing almost twice as fast as the European average in 2024, according to a study by energy think tank Ember.

This rapid expansion underscores Spain’s pivotal role in transforming the continent’s energy landscape.

Photovoltaics surpass coal across Europe

The European Union’s energy mix in 2024 saw a major shift, with solar power generating 11% of electricity across the EU-27, surpassing coal for the first time. Wind energy also overtook gas as the second-largest energy source for the second consecutive year.

In Spain, the progress has been even more dramatic. Photovoltaics reached an all-time high, accounting for 21% of electricity generation, nearly double the EU average. This marks a significant jump from 17% in 2023, solidifying Spain’s position as a leader in solar energy adoption.

What are photovoltaics?

Photovoltaics (PV) refer to the technology used to convert sunlight directly into electricity using solar panels made of semiconductor materials, typically silicon. When sunlight strikes the surface of a solar panel, it excites electrons in the material, creating an electric current that can be harnessed as energy. Photovoltaic systems are highly versatile, scalable, and environmentally friendly, making them a cornerstone of renewable energy strategies. These systems can power anything from small household appliances to large-scale industrial operations, making them a vital tool in the transition to a sustainable energy future.

Spain’s solar boom is a European benchmark

Spain experienced the largest growth in photovoltaics in Europe for the second consecutive year, adding 11 TWh of solar-generated electricity in 2024. Renewable energy expert Daniel Pérez highlights Spain’s potential, noting that the country receives 50% more sunlight than Germany and has the capacity to become a global solar energy superpower.

Currently, Spain ranks third in the EU for its share of solar power in the electricity mix, following Hungary and Greece, and second in total solar generation after Germany. This growth reflects Spain’s commitment to renewable energy and its strategic geographic advantage.

EU energy trends in 2024

While Spain leads in solar power, nuclear energy remains the EU’s largest energy source, generating 24% of electricity, followed by wind power at 17%. Gas continues to decline, dropping to 16%, marking its fifth consecutive year of reduced share in the energy mix.

The transition to renewables is evident when compared to 2019, the year the European Green Deal was adopted. Back then, gas and coal were dominant in the energy mix, but coal has now fallen to less than 10%, its lowest share ever.

“Fossil fuels are losing their dominant position in the EU’s energy supply,” said Chris Rosslowe, an Ember analyst and lead author of the report. Since their peak in 2007, emissions from the EU energy sector have halved, with renewables now generating almost half of the bloc’s electricity.

Wind and hydropower – the progress and challenges

While wind energy remains the second-largest renewable source, its deployment is lagging behind EU targets. To meet climate goals, wind capacity must double by 2030, according to Ember. Meanwhile, hydropower saw a 10% increase, supported by above-average rainfall, contributing 13% to the energy mix.

Economic and environmental benefits

The expansion of solar and wind energy has not only helped reduce carbon emissions but also delivered significant financial savings. Over the past five years, the EU’s renewable energy efforts have reduced imports of 92 billion cubic metres of gas and 55 million tons of coal, saving the bloc €59 billion.

These savings also mitigate the EU’s vulnerability to volatile fossil fuel prices, a crucial development in light of the energy crisis triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. “Renewables are helping Europe tackle the climate crisis while ensuring affordable energy for households and businesses,” said Beatrice Petrovich, an Ember analyst.

Spain’s renewable energy future

Spain’s rapid adoption of solar energy positions it as a leader in the EU’s transition to clean energy. With its abundant sunlight and growing investment in renewables, the country is set to play a key role in achieving Europe’s climate goals. However, continued acceleration in wind and solar power deployment will be crucial to meet the ambitious targets outlined in the Green Deal.

As Spain and the EU move toward a greener future, the success of 2024 serves as a reminder of what can be achieved with bold policies, innovation, and international collaboration.

You may also like