Solar Energy in Central Europe Grows Sixfold, But Storage Remains Key Challenge

The adoption of solar energy in Central Europe is accelerating, with Czechia, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia increasing their combined solar generation sixfold between 2019 and 2024. This expansion highlights the region’s determination to reduce coal dependency, but analysts caution that limited battery storage deployment and renewable targets below the EU average could slow future momentum.

Rapid Expansion of Solar Power

Between 2019 and 2024, solar output across the four nations surged from around 5 TWh to 29 TWh. This growth rate was more than double the EU average, where generation increased from 125 TWh to 308 TWh over the same period.

Poland currently leads the region with the largest installed solar capacity, surpassing 23 GW, while Hungary saw the most dramatic rise, with solar’s share of electricity generation jumping from 4% in 2019 to nearly 25% in 2024. Czechia nearly doubled its output, whereas Slovakia lags behind due to less favorable regulations and higher grid connection costs.

Record Solar Shares in National Power Mix

In mid-2024, several countries recorded their highest-ever solar contributions to electricity supply. Hungary reached 42%, Poland hit 22%, and Czechia climbed to nearly 15%. At the same time, all four countries have made progress in cutting coal reliance. Hungary halved its coal share, Slovakia shut down its last coal-fired plant, Czechia accelerated its phase-out date, and Poland produced more renewable electricity than coal for the first time in 2025.

Renewable Power Growth Targets Below EU Average

Despite strong momentum, projected renewable shares for 2030 remain below the EU-wide average of 66%. Current figures place Czechia at 31%, Hungary at 42%, Poland at 51%, and Slovakia at 26%. Experts warn that without stronger political commitments, the region could lose ground in the race for renewable power growth.

Battery Storage Needed for Long-Term Progress

One of the biggest hurdles is the lack of large-scale battery storage. As of August 2025, the four countries had installed only 0.1 GW of storage capacity—less than 2% of the EU total. Poland has a significant pipeline of storage projects, but Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia currently show limited investment in this area. Expanding storage capacity and flexible grid solutions will be crucial to sustaining solar growth and ensuring energy stability.

The Road Ahead

The rapid rise of solar energy in Central Europe shows how coal-dependent nations can transition to cleaner power sources. To maintain momentum, policymakers and industry leaders must strengthen regulatory frameworks, accelerate battery storage deployment, and set more ambitious renewable targets. With these measures, Central Europe has the potential not only to keep pace with the EU but to emerge as a leader in renewable power growth.