Germany broke its record for solar power generation in July.
Despite less sunlight exposure in July compared to the previous year, solar power plants in Germany managed to produce an all-time high amount of solar energy. This was revealed by Economic Minister Habeck. Overall, it seems like 2024 is going to be a flourishing year for renewable energy, with significant progress expected in new wind installations.
Germany churned out 10.1 terawatt hours (TWh) of solar power in July, setting a new monthly record. As per data from the Federal Ministry of Economics, reported by Funke media group, a total of 23.6 TWh of electricity was generated from renewable sources in July, with solar power contributing around 43%. Compared to the same period last year, approximately 7% more renewable electricity was produced in Germany during the first seven months.
In the opinion of Federal Economic Minister Robert Habeck, these numbers underscore the federal government's commitment to expanding renewable energy sources. Habeck stated that this record-breaking figure in July was achieved "despite less sunlight exposure than the previous year," expressing his optimism to Funke newspapers. "It demonstrates that our measures are effective, and solar power generation is on the rise." The expansion process is proceeding at an impressive pace. Between January and July, 12% more solar capacity was installed than in the first seven months of 2023. Solar power production increased by 14% in this period.
Habeck also highlighted "positive prospects" in the onshore wind sector. According to figures from the ministry, the approval of wind turbines from the first three tender rounds this year has surpassed 7 GW in performance, an increase of over 60% compared to the previous year.
Habeck is hopeful that Germany is on track to achieve its 2030 expansion and climate protection goals.
The record-breaking solar energy production in July, despite less sunlight exposure, underscores the effectiveness of Germany's measures to increase solar energy. This trend indicates a continued rise in solar power generation, setting positive expectations for the future.
Furthermore, the majority of the total renewable electricity produced in July came from solar energy, highlighting the potential of energy from solar energy to contribute significantly to Germany's renewable energy goals.
