Germany’s Renewable Energy Production Declines in Q1

Germany’s renewable energy production declined in the first quarter of 2025, as months marked by poor wind and rainfall led to lower output from wind and hydropower plants.

A report by the Center for Solar and Hydrogen Research and the German Energy and Water Industry Association stated that between January and March 2025, wind turbines, solar farms, and other renewable energy sources produced 63.5 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity, a decrease of approximately 16% compared to the first quarter of 2024.

Electricity production from coal, lignite, and gas-fired power plants increased, and electricity imports from abroad also increased to help meet demand.

Offshore wind power fell by 31%, according to the report, and onshore wind power by 22%. Wind power declined in February and March. Low rainfall contributed to the decline in hydropower production. Solar power production increased by approximately 32% year-on-year. The report indicated that renewable energy sources accounted for 47% of electricity consumption in the first quarter, and these sources remain a cornerstone for achieving Germany’s climate goals.