Record-Breaking Progress in European Solar and Clean Energy

Welcome to our latest LinkedIn newsletter! In this edition, we share exciting developments in the European solar industry and the impressive progress in renewable energy generation. These updates highlight the ongoing efforts to create a sustainable and resilient energy future for Europe.

European Solar Products Enter a New Era

The European Solar Manufacturing Council (ESMC) has welcomed the Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA) as a key instrument to boost the competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the EU's net-zero industry. This legal framework is especially timely given the current challenges faced by PV manufacturers, who are often selling modules below production costs.

Key Highlights:

• NZIA Implementation: The NZIA aims to enhance the competitiveness of EU-produced PV modules by incorporating resilience and sustainability criteria in public procurements and auctions.
• Support from Member States: ESMC urges Member States to commit to the early implementation of NZIA provisions, ensuring sustainable and resilient European-made solar modules are prioritized.
• Coordination and Action: The European Commission will adopt an Implementing Act and establish the Net-Zero Europe Platform to coordinate actions between the Commission, Member States, and industry representatives.

?ygimantas Vai?iūnas, Policy Director at ESMC, emphasizes the importance of Member States turning the green light for sustainable and resilient European-made solar modules in public procurements, auctions, and national schemes to make EU PV manufacturing more competitive.

Record-Breaking Clean Electricity Generation in Europe

The generation of clean electricity in Europe is setting new records. In the first half of 2024, renewables accounted for over 50% of all power generation in Europe, while nuclear provided a stable 24%. According to Eurelectric’s electricity data platform, 74% of electricity produced in the EU during this period came from renewable and low-carbon energy sources.

Key Highlights:

• Increased Renewable Share: The share of renewables and low-carbon energy in the EU's electricity production rose to 74% in the first half of 2024, up from 68% in 2023.
• Stable Nuclear Contribution: Nuclear energy continues to provide a significant and stable share of electricity.
• Electricity Demand Challenges: Despite the positive supply-side numbers, electricity demand remains low due to deindustrialization, mild weather, and slow economic growth.

Kristian Ruby, Secretary General of Eurelectric, calls for urgent policy support to stimulate electricity demand, ensuring continued investments in clean generation. Eurelectric proposes an Electrification Action Plan with a 35% target for 2030 to provide the necessary investment signals for clean generation.

These developments underscore the rapid advancements in Europe’s solar and renewable energy sectors. With the support of the NZIA and proactive measures to stimulate electricity demand, Europe is well on its way to achieving a sustainable and resilient energy future.

Reference:

• PV Magazine (2024, June 28). European solar products enter a new era. Pv Magazine International. https://www.pv-magazine.com/press-releases/european-solar-products-enter-a-new-era/
• PV Europe. (2024g, July 3). EU power generation decarbonising at unseen pace. https://www.pveurope.eu/markets/eurelectric-eu-power-generation-decarbonising-unseen-pace

Connect with Us

For more information and updates, follow our LinkedIn page and join the conversation about the future of solar energy. Together, we can drive the energy transition and create a sustainable future.