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illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Independent or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: In 2024, solar energy generation in the EU surpassed coal for the first time, with nearly half (47%) of all electricity coming from renewables, according to Ember’s report
• Solar and wind energy accounted for a larger share than fossil fuels, marking a key milestone in Europe’s energy transition
🔭 The context: Since the European Green Deal was introduced in 2019, solar capacity has tripled, and wind capacity has grown by 37%, cumulatively avoiding 460 million tonnes of CO2 emissions
• Renewable energy adoption also saved the EU €59 billion in fossil fuel imports over five years, shielding the region from volatile global energy prices
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Europe’s progress shows that ambitious climate policies and investments can accelerate the shift from fossil fuels to renewables
• This transition reduces greenhouse gas emissions, mitigates climate change, and enhances energy security for EU nations
⏭️ What's next: Experts call for accelerating wind energy deployment, which requires more than doubling annual additions by 2030
• Enhanced energy storage, smart electrification of industries, and ongoing renewable infrastructure investment will be crucial for meeting climate goals
💬 One quote: “Fossil fuels are losing their grip on EU energy.” — Dr. Chris Rosslowe, senior energy analyst at Ember
📈 One stat: Solar energy comprised 11% of electricity generation across all 27 EU countries in 2024
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