Renewable-energy deployment and electricity-system integration in the European Union

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the European Union’s renewable energy transition, focusing on structural changes in electricity generation between 2015 and 2024. Using recent data from Eurostat and the International Renewable Energy Agency, the analysis shows that renewables reached 47.3% of total EU electricity generation in 2024, surpassing fossil fuels for the first time, largely driven by the rapid expansion of solar photovoltaic and wind energy. Despite this progress, achieving the EU’s enhanced 2030 target of 42.5% renewables and the global tripling pledge under COP28 remains challenging. Key barriers include limitations in grid integration, supply chain constraints, and slower decarbonisation in transport and heating sectors. This study highlights the need to move beyond capacity expansion towards a more integrated approach that emphasises system flexibility, sector coupling, and circular supply chains. It proposes a forward-looking policy framework that integrates technological, economic, and governance dimensions to support a resilient and climate-neutral energy system. The findings contribute to ongoing policy discussions by providing practical insights for advancing the next phase of the EU energy transition.