Spain Hits Record 50% Renewable Power in 2023

Spain achieved a groundbreaking milestone in 2023 by generating more than half of its electricity from renewable sources, marking a historic achievement, as reported by the national power grid. According to data from Red Electrica Espanola (REE), renewable energy production contributed nearly 135,000 GWh, accounting for 50.4% of the overall national energy mix.

This record-breaking percentage represents an eight-point increase from the 42.2% recorded in 2022, marking the first time Spain surpassed the 50% threshold for renewable electricity, as highlighted in a statement by REE. Wind energy emerged as the leading source for the second consecutive year, generating 63,000 GWh, constituting 23.3% of Spain's total electricity production.

Solar power installations also played a significant role, contributing 37,000 GWh or 14% of the overall energy total, surpassing hydropower, which accounted for 9.5%. The figures for nuclear-generated electricity remained stable at 20.3%, while gas-generated power experienced a seven-point decrease to 17.2% during the same period.

Beatriz Corredor, head of REE's parent company Redeia, emphasized that these figures provide undeniable evidence of Spain's steady progress in the green transition. The government, led by Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, has committed to raising the share of renewable-generated energy to 74% of Spain's total electricity production by 2030. This goal seems achievable due to Spain's natural abundance of sunshine and wind.

The country has witnessed a surge in large-scale projects involving solar installations and wind farms, supported by significant investments, particularly in the sparsely populated northern and central regions. Spain's achievement positions it as one of the leaders in Europe in terms of renewable power capacity.

Germany, too, released preliminary figures in mid-December, indicating that renewable sources contributed over 50% to the total electricity generation in 2023, reflecting a broader European trend towards increased reliance on clean and sustainable energy.