German Renewables Hit 52% Milestone, Wind Surpasses Coal in Power Generation
In 2023, Germany saw a significant increase in the share of renewable energy sources in its total energy consumption, reaching 22%, as reported by the Federal Environment Agency (UBA). This growth was attributed to the continuous expansion of solar and wind power installations in electricity production, alongside a rise in the adoption of renewable heating systems.
The rise from 20.8% in the previous year was facilitated by a decrease in energy demand across all sectors, according to the agency. Total renewable electricity production in the country surged by 7% to over 272 terawatt hours (TWh), marking the highest level ever recorded. This increase also led to a record 51.8% share of renewables in electricity consumption, as highlighted by UBA.
Key Contributors to Renewable Electricity Production
Wind turbines and solar PV arrays played a significant role, contributing three-quarters of all renewable electricity production. Wind power alone generated 142.1 TWh, surpassing the combined output of lignite and hard coal plants for the first time.
Moreover, due to above-average precipitation in 2023, hydroelectric power production saw an 11% increase to 19.6 TWh. However, electricity production from biomass experienced a 5% decline, dropping to 49.3 TWh.
