Spain is on track to generate more than half of its power from renewable sources this year, the first of the top five European countries by power demand to accomplish this feat, according to Rystad Energy forecasts.
The country will reach this significant decarbonisation milestone this year, with renewable-sourced generation surpassing the 50% average in 2023, beating France, Germany, Italy and the UK to this record, Rystad predicted.
Spain has been one of the long-time leaders in the European renewables sector, making substantial investments in solar and wind capacity over the last 10 years, Rystad said.
In particular, the country was an early adopter of onshore wind, technology that now accounts for more than 20% of Spain’s power generation, it added.
Significant solar PV investments have also ramped up capacity and related generation in recent years.
Fabian Rønningen, senior analyst on the renewables & power team at Rystad Energy said: “Spain’s renewable energy achievements come as no surprise given its history of strategic investments and early adoption.
“Its progress should be a clear benchmark for counterparts and serve as testament to the attainability of a cleaner energy future.”