Eurelectric report: Clean energy buffered EU against fossil fuel volatility

The Eurelectric Power Barometer 2026 report indicates that clean energy production helped mitigate the impact of the energy crisis in Europe. Despite geopolitical tensions and extreme weather, the European electricity system demonstrated resilience against fossil fuel volatility.

Between February and August 2026, EU electricity prices rose by 22.8%, while natural gas prices surged by 88.4%. Following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, gas prices increased by 41% between February and May, during which time EU electricity prices actually decreased by 7%. Subsequent record summer temperatures drove electricity prices higher due to high gas costs, weakened Scandinavian hydroelectric power, and reduced nuclear availability caused by low river levels and scheduled maintenance.

In 2026, clean sources accounted for 72% of the EU's electricity production. Eurelectric Secretary General Kristian Ruby stated that the year saw severe disruption in global energy markets, highlighting the risks of dependence on imported fossil fuels and showing that Europe's bet on clean electricity is yielding results.