In 2023, the European Union achieved a significant milestone in its efforts to combat climate change, with a remarkable decline in the burning of fossil fuels for electricity generation. Data reveals that during the first half of the year, the EU member states reduced their consumption of coal, oil, and gas for electricity production by a substantial 17% compared to the same period in the previous year. This substantial drop, as outlined in a study by the clean energy thinktank Ember, resulted in the EU generating 410TWh of electricity from fossil fuel sources. Analysts consider this to be the lowest level recorded since 2015, the first year for which monthly data is available, and very likely the lowest since 2000.
The reduction in fossil fuel-based electricity generation can be attributed to a combination of factors. Firstly, there was a decline in the demand for electricity, and secondly, an increase in the use of clean energy sources played a role in this remarkable achievement.
While these figures are undoubtedly positive, experts warn that relying solely on a decrease in energy demand is not a sustainable solution. The EU has made significant climate commitments, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% from 1990 levels by the end of the decade and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. To meet these targets, the EU will likely need to reduce its overall energy consumption but significantly increase its use of electricity, particularly in sectors like heating and transportation, where electrification is key to decarbonization.
The Ember report reveals that fossil fuel generation in the first half of 2023 dropped by over 20% in 11 EU countries and more than 30% in five of them. Fourteen countries recorded their lowest fossil fuel generation levels for this period. Seven countries, including Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Poland, and Slovenia, witnessed the lowest fossil fuel burning in this century.
These findings corroborate earlier analyses indicating a shift away from fossil fuel-based power generation in the EU. However, even as energy prices have declined due to reduced demand, the EU’s dependence on fossil fuels continues to present concerns. This reliance extends to external sources, as a significant portion of the EU’s fossil fuel needs come from imports. Any disruption in the supply chain could lead to price increases and potential energy shortages.
On a more positive note, the report highlights growth in renewable energy sources. Solar power production increased by 13%, wind generation by 5%, and hydropower by 11% following last year’s drought. Nuclear generation saw a slight decline of 4% but is expected to rebound later in the year.
Several EU countries achieved record-breaking levels of renewable energy adoption. Greece and Romania exceeded 50% renewable energy generation for the first time, while Denmark and Portugal surpassed 75%.
Despite these achievements, the report emphasizes the need for continued action. Governments are urged to accelerate the deployment of wind turbines and solar panels, expand the electricity grid, invest in energy storage solutions like batteries, and simplify the permitting process for clean energy infrastructure. The goal is to build on these successes and drive further progress in the transition to a clean and sustainable energy future.
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