Greece witnessed a remarkable surge in green energy production last year, setting a new record in the country’s commitment to renewable energy sources. Renewable energy in Greece accounted for a significant 29 percent of its total electricity production in 2021, a substantial increase compared to previous years.
This uptrend in green energy production is part of Greece’s ambitious goals to reduce total greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The Greek government has made considerable progress towards these objectives, with the renewable energy sector being a major contributor to this achievement.
In 2022, Greece generated a staggering 7,047 gigawatt-hours from solar energy alone, a figure that dramatically outweighs the 1,694 GWh produced in 2012. Furthermore, the nation’s power plants, which predominantly operate on renewable sources, boasted an impressive capacity of 11.3 GW at the end of June.
The push for renewable energy sources is not merely an environmental concern for Greece but also a means to bolster the country’s energy security. The Greek Prime Minister has expressed intentions for the country to become an energy security provider, a move that would undoubtedly be facilitated by the growth and development of the renewable energy sector.
One of the high points of Greece’s renewable energy journey occurred when renewable sources covered the country’s electricity demands for approximately five hours on a particular day. This event underscored the potential of renewable energy sources and their capability to meet a substantial portion of the nation’s electricity needs.
The record-breaking green energy output in Greece last year underscores the country’s commitment to a sustainable future and serves as an inspiration for other nations. It demonstrates that with concerted efforts and robust policies, it is indeed possible to transition from traditional energy sources to more sustainable alternatives.
However, while the progress is laudable, there is still a long way to go. Greece’s renewable energy sector must continue to innovate and expand to meet the country’s ambitious 2030 and 2050 targets.