Solar Energy Becomes EU’s Largest Power Source in June 2025

Intermediate | August 14, 2025

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Solar Becomes EU’s Largest Power Source in June 2025

In an exciting milestone, solar becomes EU’s largest power source for the first time, generating 22.1% of the bloc’s electricity in June 2025. This achievement puts solar ahead of both nuclear and wind power. (Reuters)

Why Did This Happen Now?

The surge came from record-breaking solar capacity installations and unusually sunny weather across Europe. Heatwaves in June created ideal conditions for maximum solar output. (Ember)

Country Highlights: Record Solar Performances

At least 13 EU member states, including the Netherlands and Greece, hit record highs for solar generation. In the Netherlands, solar made up over 40% of electricity; in Greece, it reached 35%. (Reuters)

Coal Falls to Historic Low

Meanwhile, coal’s share fell to just 6.1% of EU power—its lowest ever—marking a major shift from fossil fuels. Even coal-reliant nations like Germany and Poland saw big drops. (Ember)

Vocabulary

Milestone (noun) – A significant event marking progress.
Example: “Crossing 20% solar share is a milestone for Europe’s energy transition.”
Generation (noun) – The production of electricity.
Example: “Wind generation was strong last winter.”
Capacity (noun) – The maximum amount something can produce.
Example: “Increased solar capacity helped meet demand.”
Photovoltaic (PV) (adj.) – Related to converting sunlight into electricity.
Example: “PV technology has advanced quickly in recent years.”
Heatwave (noun) – A prolonged period of very hot weather.
Example: “The summer heatwave boosted solar production.”
Record low (noun) – The lowest level ever recorded.
Example: “Coal use fell to a record low last month.”
Transition (noun) – A change from one state to another.
Example: “The transition to renewable energy is speeding up.”
Overnight (adverb) – Happening quickly or suddenly.
Example: “The policy change didn’t happen overnight.”
Milestone month (phrase) – A month marked by notable achievements.
Example: “June was a milestone month for EU energy.”
Flexibility (noun) – The ability to adapt easily.
Example: “Grid flexibility helps manage solar fluctuations.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What made June 2025 historic for the EU’s energy mix?
How did weather conditions contribute to solar’s success?
Which countries led the solar performance records?
Why is the coal drop significant alongside solar’s rise?
What could challenge solar’s top position in the future?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

Will solar remain Europe’s top energy source? Why or why not?
How could battery storage improve solar reliability?
What policies could support further solar growth?
How can countries prepare for seasonal changes in solar output?
Should other regions follow Europe’s lead in solar expansion?

Related Idiom

“A rising tide lifts all boats” – Overall improvement benefits everyone involved.
Example: “As solar grows, it helps the entire renewable sector advance.”

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This article was inspired by The Korea Herald