The European Union significantly accelerated renewable energy development in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine at the start of 2022, according to analysis of the Statistical Review of World Energy. The expansion of wind and solar capacity has produced measurable economic and energy security benefits for the region.
Wind and solar power accounted for 30% of EU electricity generation in 2025, up from 19% in 2021. This growth displaced conventional power sources substantially, with gas generation declining 15% over the period and coal falling 38%. By 2025, wind and solar combined generated 852 terawatt-hours, exceeding the combined output of coal, gas, and oil generation at 760 terawatt-hours.
The accelerated renewable deployment, supported by policy frameworks including REPowerEU, has delivered significant financial advantages. Analysis by Ember determined that new wind and solar capacity added following the invasion avoided €72 billion in fossil fuel import costs between 2022 and 2025. Germany, Spain, and Italy achieved the largest savings through this transition. Gas imports accounted for the majority of these avoided costs, reducing European dependence on foreign energy suppliers.
The rapid scaling of renewable infrastructure has provided the EU with both economic relief from higher commodity prices and increased energy security by reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. The transition demonstrates the feasibility of substantial shifts in power generation within a relatively short timeframe when supported by coordinated policy and investment.
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