🌱 Decarbonization & Energy Transition
1. Solar Tops EU Power Mix for First Time in June
Solar provided a record-breaking 22.1% of the EU’s electricity in June—surpassing nuclear and wind—for the first time. At least 13 member states hit monthly solar generation highs, while coal fell to just 6.1% of the energy mix. Analysts highlight that enhanced storage and grid flexibility remain essential to sustain growth. (Source: REI)
2. Clean Energy Dip Causes Fossil Fuel Surge in First Half
Despite solar’s strong June, lower wind and hydro output tied to climate-driven "global stilling" led to a 13% rise in fossil-fuel electricity. Gas-fired power saw the largest increase, underscoring the need for renewables’ resilience year-round. (Source: Reuters)
🔎 Climate Impacts & Scientific Findings
1. Wildfire Locks Down 18,000 in Catalonia Heatwave
A wildfire near Tarragona forced 18,000 residents indoors, consuming nearly 3,000 hectares amid Spain’s hottest June on record. Strong winds hindered firefighting efforts until authorities contained the blaze. (Source: Reuters)
2. European Heatwave Caused ~2,300 Deaths
In a 10‑day span ending July 2, 2025, a heatwave in 12 cities caused around 2,300 deaths; about 1,500 (two-thirds) were directly attributed to human‑made climate change. Temperatures surged up to 4 °C over natural levels. (Source: Guardian)
3. Wildfire Near Marseille Cuts Power, Closes Airport Without Fatalities
A blaze covering 700 hectares near Marseille forced airport closure, shelter‑in‑place orders for 14,000 residents, and injuries to 110 people, though no deaths were reported. The heatwave-ignited blaze underscores growing Mediterranean fire risk. (Source: Reuters)
🏛️ Climate Policy & Regulation
1. EU 2040 Emissions Goal Might Include International Offsets
The European Commission’s proposed 90% emissions cut by 2040 could include up to 3% from overseas carbon credits. The proposal is defended as pragmatic, but NGOs worry offsets may delay deeper domestic decarbonization. (Source: IIGCC)