Solar energy has reached a symbolic milestone in Germany. In 2025, photovoltaics accounted for approximately 18% of national electricity consumption, surpassing two major fossil fuel sources for the first time: coal and natural gas. This is a notable advancement, even as wind energy remains the country’s primary electricity source.
According to figures released by the German Solar Industry Association (BSW), the share of solar in domestic electricity production increased from 14% in 2024 to nearly 18% in 2025. At the same time, coal fell to about 14%, while natural gas represented nearly 16% of production.
A record in photovoltaic production
This increase can be attributed to a significant rise in production. According to a provisional annual assessment based on data from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems, the approximately 5.5 million photovoltaic installations in the country generated around 87 terawatt-hours of electricity in 2025.
This represents 15 terawatt-hours more than in 2024, setting a new record for German solar energy. This momentum confirms the acceleration of investments in photovoltaics, driven by falling costs, public incentives, and the desire to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Wind energy remains at the top of the electricity mix
Despite this progress, solar still does not lead as the primary electricity source in Germany. Wind energy maintains its dominant position with an estimated share of 27% of national electricity production in 2025, according to the Fraunhofer Institute.
Overall, Germany’s energy transition continues on its trajectory. The share of renewable energy in net public electricity production reached 55.9% in 2025, a level comparable to the previous year, affirming the sustainable integration of renewables into the country’s energy mix.
A strong signal for the energy transition
The fact that solar now surpasses coal and gas in electricity production is a strong signal for German energy policy. It illustrates the gradual decline of fossil fuels and the growing role of renewable sources in the country’s energy security.
However, authorities and industry players emphasize that the challenge remains significant: integrating more intermittent energy sources, strengthening electricity grids, and developing storage capacities to ensure long-term system stability.