In Germany, Wind and Solar Overtake Fossil Power
In a first, Germany drew more power from wind and solar than from fossil fuels last year. Read more on E360 →
Germany achieved a historic milestone in 2025, with wind and solar power outpacing fossil fuels for the first time. According to data from the Energy Institute, wind and solar generated 44 percent of Germany's electricity, while fossil fuels accounted for roughly 43 percent. This shift marks a significant milestone for Germany's "Energiewende" - its national push to increase renewable energy and phase out gas, coal, and nuclear power.
Germany decommissioned its final nuclear power plant in 2023 and aims to phase out coal by 2038, though experts believe the goal may be reached sooner. By 2045, Germany plans to convert any remaining gas-fired power plants to green hydrogen, aiming for net zero emissions by that date. The government has streamlined permitting processes for renewable energy projects, digitizing approvals and designating clean energy as "overriding public interest," providing protection from legal challenges.
As the third-largest economy globally after the U.S. and China, and the largest European economy, Germany's embrace of renewables has propelled the European Union toward cleaner power. For the first time last year, EU power generation saw wind and solar surpass fossil fuels, according to Ember data. Wind and solar accounted for 30 percent of EU power, while fossil fuels generated 29 percent, with nuclear and hydropower supplying the remainder.
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