Solar photovoltaic generation fell across most major European electricity markets during the week of 13 July, while wind power output increased in most markets, according to AleaSoft Energy Forecasting. The data covers weekly changes compared with the previous week.
Weekly solar PV declines and Portugal’s growth
France recorded the largest weekly decline in solar PV generation, with output down 14%. Spain followed with a 5.4% decrease, while Italy and Germany saw more moderate falls of 1.6% and 1.0%, respectively.
Portugal moved against the broader trend, with solar PV generation rising by 2.9%. It also marked its third consecutive week of growth, alongside continued daily production records.
On 16 July, Portugal’s solar PV generation reached 34 GWh. That level surpassed the previous all-time record for solar output on a July day, which had been set on 7 July.
AleaSoft outlook for solar from 20 July
For the week beginning 20 July, AleaSoft Energy Forecasting expects solar generation to decline across all major European electricity markets covered by its analysis. The forecast indicates a short-term correction after strong production levels in several markets.
The same outlook also points to continued growth in installed solar capacity across Europe.
Wind power increases in most markets during the third week of July
Wind generation showed a different pattern during the third week of July. Output increased in most major European electricity markets compared with the previous week.
Italy recorded the largest increase in wind generation at 22.0%, followed by Spain with a 12% rise and France with a 6.5% increase.
Germany was the main exception, with wind power generation falling by 28%. Portugal also declined more moderately, with wind output down 5.4%.
July daily wind record and expectations for late July
AleaSoft reported that France set a new all-time record for wind generation on a July day on 13 July, when output reached 215 GWh. The record reflects how exceptional single-day production can occur alongside significant week-on-week changes.
For the fourth week of July, AleaSoft Energy Forecasting expects wind generation to increase across most major European electricity markets, while France is forecast to record a decline.
The contrasting solar and wind outlook highlights weather-driven variability affecting European electricity markets. AleaSoft also linked higher renewable penetration to greater needs for flexibility measures, including energy storage, and expanded cross-border interconnection capacity.
