Solar+ Plan Could Slash EU Energy Costs by Half by 2030

TL;DR: A more aggressive rollout of solar PV and battery storage could cut Europe’s average energy system operating costs by €55 billion – a 49% reduction – by 2030.

Europe’s power mix is poised for a rapid shift. The SolarPower Europe report, produced with Rystad Energy, outlines a “Solar+” pathway that would lift renewable share to 68% of electricity generation by the decade’s end, up from the current 48%.

Key to the scenario is doubling solar’s contribution from 13% in 2025 to 26% in 2030, matching wind power’s share. The report credits solar’s cost competitiveness, versatility, and speed of deployment for this growth. Battery energy storage systems (BESS) would expand to 171 GW of capacity and roughly 600 GWh of storage, far beyond today’s 55 GW.

If realized, the Solar+ plan would shave €55 billion off annual operating costs, a 49% drop from current levels. The savings stem from reduced reliance on imported fossil gas; solar generation has already avoided €8.5 billion in gas imports since the recent crisis. Analysts estimate total savings could reach €67.5 billion this year and sustain €50 billion annually through 2030.

SolarPower Europe CEO Walburga Hemetsberger argues that a renewables‑driven grid is fundamentally cheaper than one dependent on volatile fossil fuel prices. She notes that investments in solar, storage, and non‑fossil flexibility deliver long‑term economic stability, whereas fossil‑fuel assets erode independence.

Policy makers face two clear tasks: adopt an EU‑wide flexibility strategy that includes a dedicated battery storage action plan, and coordinate an ambitious electrification roadmap across member states. Without stronger policy support, storage deployment may still fall short of the volumes needed for full system flexibility.

The projected decline in day‑ahead wholesale electricity prices under the Solar+ scenario would be felt across all EU markets, offering consumers lower bills and enhancing energy security.

What it means: Europe stands at a crossroads where accelerated solar and storage investments could halve energy operating costs and reduce gas import dependence. Watching EU policy moves on storage incentives and coordinated electrification will indicate whether the Solar+ vision can become reality.