Solar energy is advancing strongly across Europe thanks to falling costs and its growing role in electricity generation. In 2025 it exceeded capacity targets and became the main source of electricity in June, consolidating itself as a key element of the energy transition.
Solar energy has established itself as one of the most dynamic pillars of Europe’s energy transition. In recent years, its deployment has grown at a remarkable pace, driven by sustained cost reductions and its increasing competitiveness compared with other sources of electricity generation. Photovoltaic technology has become the most economical option in many areas of the European Union, while solar thermal continues to play a relevant role in producing heat for buildings and industry.
This progress is reflected in recent milestones: in 2024, renewable energy covered 47.5% of the bloc’s electricity consumption, and almost a quarter of that electricity came from photovoltaics. In June 2025, for the first time, the sun became the main source of electricity generation in the EU. Installed solar photovoltaic capacity reached 406 GW in 2025, far surpassing the targets set in the European Solar Strategy. In addition, around 11 million rooftops already incorporate solar thermal solutions and associated storage.
The potential for further expansion remains high, particularly in urban environments, where architectural integration and energy communities make it possible to broaden access to this clean energy even in buildings that are less suited to direct installation.
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