Portugal tops latest EU leaderboard for renewable energy - report

illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euronews or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Portugal’s renewable electricity production has surged, reaching an impressive 80.7% in January 2026
• This is largely driven by hydropower (36.8%) and wind (35.2%), marking a significant recovery since the 2025 blackout crisis
• The country now ranks second in Europe, behind Norway (96.3%), and ahead of Denmark (78.8%)
• The move saved Portugal €703 million in energy costs and was crucial for system stability

🔎 Context: The 2025 Iberian blackout triggered by grid failures raised concerns about the viability of the green transition
• Experts emphasize the need for upgraded grids to handle the growing share of renewable energy

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Portugal's progress highlights the increasing role of renewable energy in mitigating climate change, while also demonstrating the importance of grid modernization
• The country’s green energy success offers a blueprint for Europe’s transition to cleaner power, pointing out the need for investment in grid infrastructure to prevent power disruptions

💬 One quote: “As renewable energy grows, system resilience must grow with it,” said Rana Adib, Executive Director at REN21

📈 One stat: Portugal saved €703 million compared to using natural gas plants, thanks to its renewable energy shift

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