Europe's rapid transition to clean energy is largely due to the ambitious European Green Deal, which was introduced in 2019. This policy has set bold climate goals, aiming for a 55% reduction in emissions by the end of the decade and achieving climate neutrality by 2050. Since the Deal’s inception, the EU has strengthened its climate laws, implementing numerous regulations to encourage investment in renewable energy while curbing carbon pollution.
At the start of the European Green Deal, fossil fuels made up 39% of the region’s electricity generation, with renewables at around 33%. Today, fossil fuel generation has dropped to 29%, while wind and solar power have been central to this clean energy shift. Nuclear energy generation, however, has remained stable across the EU.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has further accelerated Europe’s clean energy transition. As gas prices soared and Russian gas became less accessible, countries began seeking more affordable and sustainable energy sources. In the past five years, nations like Portugal, the Netherlands, and Estonia have seen the greatest increases in clean power generation.
This energy shift has allowed Europe to avoid more than $61 billion in fossil fuel imports for power generation since 2019. Energy analyst Pieter de Pous highlighted that the EU’s transition to clean energy signals a future driven by solar, wind, batteries, and advanced technologies rather than fossil fuel imports.

While nuclear energy growth has slowed in the EU, the focus on renewable energy continues to position Europe as a global leader in clean power. With the U.S. backing away from climate commitments, Europe’s leadership in clean energy is seen as essential in boosting energy independence and promoting climate action worldwide.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to climate action, emphasizing Europe’s ongoing efforts to partner with nations dedicated to combating global warming.