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Germany’s renewable energy sector reached a historic milestone in 2024, with net public electricity generation from renewables accounting for a record 62.7% of the total mix. Solar and wind energy spearheaded this transformation, while coal and nuclear power continued to decline, according to the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE).
Wind Power Remains the Leading Source of Electricity
Wind energy retained its position as the most significant contributor to Germany’s electricity mix in 2024, producing 136.4 terawatt hours (TWh) and accounting for 33% of net public electricity generation. However, the expansion of wind capacity fell short of expectations. Only 2.44 gigawatts (GW) of onshore wind capacity were added by November 2024, far below the annual target of 7 GW. Offshore wind showed modest growth, adding 0.7 GW in 2024.
Solar Power Breaks Records
Solar power generation hit a record 72.2 TWh, marking an 18% increase compared to 2023. The photovoltaic (PV) sector exceeded government targets, with 13.3 GW installed by November and estimates suggesting total new capacity could reach 15.9 GW by year-end. Solar energy contributed 14% of net public electricity generation, with July 2024 witnessing peak output at 8.7 TWh.
Renewable Energy Hits New Highs, Coal Use Declines
In total, renewable energy sources generated 275.2 TWh in 2024, a 4.4% rise from 2023. This growth coincided with sharp reductions in coal-based electricity generation. Lignite and hard coal output fell by 8.4% and 27.6%, respectively.
“The carbon dioxide emissions in the German electricity mix were lower than ever before,” noted the Fraunhofer analysis. 2024 also marked Germany’s first full year without nuclear power following the 2023 shutdown of its last three reactors.
Battery Storage Expands to Support Renewable Growth
Germany’s shift toward renewables has fueled demand for energy storage. Battery storage capacity increased from 8.6 GW to 12.1 GW, while pumped storage remained stable at 10 GW. “Decentralized battery storage systems are particularly well suited to buffering the generation of wind and solar power,” the report highlighted.
Imports Rise Amid Cost Pressures
Germany’s electricity imports reached a net balance of 24.9 TWh, driven by lower generation costs in neighboring countries and high domestic CO2 certificate prices. France and Denmark were the top suppliers, while Germany exported electricity primarily to Austria, Poland, and Luxembourg.
Electricity Prices Drop
The average day-ahead electricity price on exchanges fell by 15.5% to €78.01/MWh, down from €92.29/MWh in 2023. This decline comes in stark contrast to the high prices of €230.57/MWh observed during the 2022 energy crisis.
Low-Carbon Milestone Achieved
Carbon dioxide emissions from electricity generation in Germany halved between 2014 and 2024, falling from 312 million tons to approximately 152 million tons annually. Emissions are now 58% lower than in 1990, reflecting Germany’s commitment to its energy transition goals.
As the country accelerates its renewable energy expansion, challenges remain in meeting installation targets and improving grid infrastructure. However, the record achievements of 2024 underscore Germany’s leadership in the global energy transition.
