In the first quarter of 2026, the share of renewable energies in electricity consumption in Germany was around 53%, which represents a further increase compared to the same period of the previous year (49%). This is based on the latest figures from the German Association of Energy and Water Industries (BDEW). A total of around 73 TWh of electricity was generated from renewable sources in the period from January to March.
Electricity mix in Germany: development of renewable energies
The composition of renewable electricity generation will remain varied in 2026. Wind energy will continue to provide the largest share, particularly due to high feed-in in the winter months.
Further contributions come from:
– Photovoltaics
– Biomass
– Hydropower
Seasonal distribution plays an important role here: while wind energy is typically stronger in the first quarter, solar power production peaks in the summer months.
Photovoltaic expansion in Germany: share and development
Photovoltaics contributed around 9 – 10 % to electricity consumption in the first quarter of 2026. This comparatively low share is mainly due to seasonal factors, as solar irradiation is lower in winter. The slight decline is primarily due to the lower solar irradiation in the first quarter of 2026 compared to 2025, which usually results in a significantly higher share of photovoltaics in electricity generation over the year as a whole.
Conclusion: Continuous expansion of renewable energies
The development in the first quarter of 2026 illustrates the ongoing expansion of renewable energies in the German electricity mix. With a share of 53%, they make a significant contribution to the electricity supply. Renewable energies are also helping to broaden the energy supply and rely more heavily on domestic resources.
The continuous expansion of renewable energies therefore remains a central component of the long-term development of the energy system and security of supply.
On the calculations of the German Association of Energy and Water Industries (BDEW)
