Spain continues to consolidate its energy transition, with a notable increase in the installed capacity of renewable energies between 2023 and 2024. During this period, solar capacity grew from 26,333 MW to 31,303 MW, marking an 18.9% increase, while wind capacity rose from 30,795 MW to 31,627 MW, a 2.7% rise. This progress positions renewable energy as a key pillar of the electrical system, representing 56% of the national energy mix in 2024.

According to Red Eléctric renewable generation in 2024 will reach 149 TWh, the highest historical figure, thanks to the increase in installed capacity and favorable weather conditions. Redeia’s president, Beatriz Corredor, emphasizes that “this milestone is a giant step toward the 81% target by 2030,” solidifying Spain’s role as a leader in the energy transition.

Regional Differences in Renewable Energy Growth

At the regional level, Spain’s autonomous communities have shown varied performance in the increase of installed capacity. Andalusia leads solar growth, increasing its capacity from 5,618 MW in 2023 to 7,346 MW in 2024, a rise of 30.7%. In wind energy, although its growth was more moderate, it increased from 3,642 MW to 3,665 MW. This progress is largely due to local policies that have prioritized investment in large-scale solar farms.

In Extremadura, solar energy also takes the lead, with an increase from 6,445 MW to 7,764 MW in one year, consolidating its position as a leader in installed solar capacity. Castilla-La Mancha showed remarkable growth, with solar energy increasing from 6,238 MW to 6,993 MW and wind reaching 4,999 MW. These figures reflect the region’s commitment to diversifying its energy matrix.

In the north of the country, Castilla y León remains a leader in wind energy, with an increase from 6,627 MW to 7,002 MW. This region continues to be key in clean energy production, thanks to its excellent wind resource. Meanwhile, in Galicia, wind capacity also grew slightly from 3,887 MW to 3,910 MW, although solar energy remains marginal, with only 19 MW installed.

In other regions, such as Catalonia, the improvement was more modest. Solar capacity grew from 333 MW to 372 MW, while wind capacity reached 1,406 MW. In the Community of Madrid, changes were practically nonexistent, highlighting the need for more ambitious policies in the region.

A Year of Records and Challenges for Renewables

The growth in installed capacity has not only increased the renewable share in the energy mix but also reduced CO2 emissions by 16.4% compared to 2023, reaching historic lows of 27 million tons. This achievement has been accompanied by a decline in fossil fuel production, with coal accounting for just 1.1% of total generation.

The leadership of wind energy in the energy mix, with a 23% share, and the rise of solar photovoltaic to third place, displacing combined cycle, are indicators of the structural shift in Spain’s electrical system. However, hydropower, which remains stagnant at 17,097 MW, shows the need to diversify strategies to adapt to climate phenomena such as droughts.

Key Investments and Policies

The advancement of renewables in Spain is attributed to public policies that have incentivized investment in clean technologies, such as specific auctions and regional development plans. However, challenges remain, such as the need to accelerate installation permits and reinforce the electrical infrastructure to efficiently integrate growing renewable capacity.

Moreover, Red Eléctrica highlights that in 2024, Spain will close its third consecutive year as a net exporter of energy, with a balance of 10 TWh. This milestone demonstrates the country’s potential to become a hub for clean energy in Europe, provided that regulatory and investment barriers continue to be addressed.

Despite the achievements, the challenge of reaching an 81% renewable energy share by 2030 requires coordinated efforts from the government, companies, and autonomous communities. Consolidating a resilient, sustainable, and competitive electrical system will be crucial to maintaining Spain’s leadership in the global energy transition.