Renewable Energy Surges in Global Power Mix

Germany has reached a significant milestone in its energy transition, with nearly 60% of its electricity now generated from renewable sources. In 2024, Germany's green electricity production hit a record high, driven by an increase in solar power by 10.4%, resulting in 59.5 billion kilowatt hours of energy. Wind power continues to be the dominant force, contributing 31.5% to the energy mix. The overall green electricity turnover saw a 2.3% rise from the previous year, reaching 256.4 billion kilowatt hours.

Despite the impressive growth in renewables, Germany experienced a 3.6% reduction in total electricity production due to lower industrial demand and increased imports. The shift towards renewables corresponded with a decrease in conventional energy sources, as coal and nuclear power saw their shares decline significantly.

Across the Atlantic, the United States also marked a notable shift, with renewable energies surpassing coal for the first time. Solar and wind accounted for 17% of the energy mix, eclipsing coal's 15% share. This transition is partly attributed to new applications like data centers and electric transportation, alongside declining CO2 emissions.

Efforts in Germany to enhance renewable energy output include initiatives like repowering existing wind farms. This modernization effort aims to increase production by up to five times without new permits, bolstered by streamlined approval processes. Meanwhile, RWE and Total Energies are set to contribute further to the renewable landscape by supplying green hydrogen to Saxony-Anhalt from 2030, fostering a sustainable future.