Spain saw renewable energy production surge by 10% in 2024, new figures show.
According to Red Electrica, renewables accounted for 56% of all electricity produced in the country last year, the highest ever recorded.
The boost in greener energy sources were aided by favourable weather conditions which allowed hydropower to increase production year-on-year by 35%.
Meanwhile, higher numbers of homes and businesses with solar panels saw solar energy use grow by 19% compared to 2023.
Roman Mitchell, owner of Marblanc Solar, a leading solar installer in Marbella, told the Spanish Eye: ‘We’re not surprised by the surge in solar adoption. Marbella has shown strong demand, especially among expats looking for long-term savings.
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‘For larger villas with pools, air conditioning, and high-power appliances, it’s easy to spend hundreds per month on electricity, unless you go solar.”
‘While energy prices have dropped since the 2022 crisis, the VAT on electricity has quietly climbed back to 21%, and many providers include hidden charges.’
He added: ‘Installing solar gives you control, and it protects homeowners from inflation and rising utility costs.’
Mitchell said he has been able to cut customers’ bills by 80%, sometimes more, by making them switch to solar.
Across Spain, wind power is the most used energy source, accounting for 23% of electricity production, followed by nuclear power at 20% and solar at 17%.
Gas-fired power plants and hydropower each account for 13% of national generation.
According to Red Electrica, carbon dioxide emissions from electricity production reached their lowest levels in 2024, decreasing by an impressive 16.8% on the year before.
Overall, an impressive 76.8% of all Spanish energy generated in 2024 was emissions-free.
