EU Ramps Up Renewable Energy Expansion with Record 89 GW Addition Planned for 2025

The European Union (EU) is poised to achieve a significant milestone in its renewable energy expansion, with projections indicating the addition of 89 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity in 2025. This comprises 70 GW from solar energy and 19 GW from wind power, marking a substantial increase from the 65.5 GW of solar and 12.9 GW of wind added in 2024. This accelerated deployment is crucial for the EU to meet its climate targets and reduce reliance on Russian gas by 2027.

However, the renewable energy sector faces significant challenges that could impede this progress. Prolonged permitting processes have been a persistent issue, delaying project implementation across member states. Additionally, reductions in government incentives, such as France's recent cuts to feed-in tariff support for rooftop solar panels, have led industry associations like SolarPower Europe to consider revising their 2025 forecasts downward. The wind industry is also grappling with increased costs and supply chain disruptions, as highlighted by major developers such as Ørsted.

Despite these obstacles, industry projections remain optimistic. WindEurope anticipates a 35% increase in new wind capacity in 2025, reaching 17.4 GW. This growth is essential for the EU's strategy to reduce dependence on Russian gas imports by 2027. The expansion of renewable energy infrastructure is also expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth within the EU, while contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, aiding the EU in meeting its climate objectives.

To support this transition, the European Commission has introduced several policy initiatives. The REPowerEU Plan aims to rapidly decrease the EU's dependency on Russian fossil fuels by increasing the 2030 target to 45% renewables in the energy mix and accelerating the rollout of solar energy. Additionally, the Clean Industrial Deal, published in February 2025, focuses on competitiveness in the face of elevated energy prices and the climate crisis, aiming to add 100 GW of renewables every year until 2030.

The projected addition of 89 GW in 2025 surpasses previous records, indicating a significant acceleration in renewable energy deployment within the EU. However, addressing the challenges of permitting delays, policy shifts, and economic pressures is crucial to realizing these goals. A concerted effort from policymakers, industry stakeholders, and communities is essential to navigate these obstacles and ensure the successful expansion of renewable energy in the EU.