In a first, wind and solar overtake fossil power in germany
14 hours ago
- In 2023, Germany generated 44% of its electricity from wind and solar, surpassing fossil fuels at 43% for the first time.
- This milestone advances the Energiewende, Germany's national push to expand renewables and phase out gas, coal, and nuclear power.
- Germany shut down its last nuclear plants in 2023, aims to end coal by 2038 (likely sooner), and targets net zero emissions by 2045 using green hydrogen.
- Permitting for renewable projects has been simplified through digitization, streamlined approvals, and a designation of 'overriding public interest' to protect against legal challenges.
- Germany's shift has influenced the EU, where wind and solar also overtook fossil fuels in 2025 (30% vs 29%).