Fossil generation in EU at record low in first half of 2023 as demand falls
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Brussels
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30 August 2023
Growth in solar power continued in the first half of the year, with generation up 13% (+13 TWh) compared to the same period in 2022 and continued robust solar installations. Wind generation rose by 4.8% (+10 TWh) compared to the first six months of 2022. Wind rollout continues to face challenges, despite increased ambitions.
The EU’s acceleration in renewables in recent years was visible in new records across the EU. From January to June, 17 countries generated record shares of power from renewables, with Greece and Romania passing 50% for the first time and Denmark and Portugal both breaking 75%. The Netherlands also hit 50% wind and solar for the first time in July, while Germany came close with a record 49% share in the same month.
Hydro and nuclear power show a mixed recovery so far in 2023, after sharp drops in generation levels last year created a shortfall in the EU’s power mix in 2022. Hydro generation increased by 11% (15 TWh) in the first half of 2023, while nuclear generation fell by 3.6% (-11 TWh) but is expected to recover as the year continues.