This development isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a sign of deep structural transformation, driven by both urgency and opportunity. With coal still dominating the Czech energy mix, but slated for full phase-out by 2033, solar energy is emerging as a central pillar in the country’s long-term strategy for sustainable, low-emission power generation.

From Delay to Deployment: What Changed?

While many European countries aggressively expanded renewables in the 2010s, the Czech Republic remained cautious, its solar boom of the late 2000s fading into stagnation due to policy shifts and reduced subsidies.

But three things have recently reignited solar growth: Improved global supply chains after COVID-era disruptionsEasier access to EU-backed funding for green investments. And most importantly, a renewed national resolve to leave behind coal.

ČEZ’s Role in Scaling Up Solar

The state-backed energy giant ČEZ Group is now leading the solar charge. With over 5 GW of photovoltaic projects under development, ČEZ is shifting its identity from a coal-heavy utility to a future-facing energy company.

According to Petr Zelenka, head of renewable energy at ČEZ, the majority of these projects are expected to be online by 2030, with some continuing beyond that horizon. These developments are being supported by the Modernization Fund, which helps offset high upfront costs for low-carbon infrastructure.

In just the past few years, ČEZ has gone from testing the waters to executing major solar construction at scale. Nine new solar plants have already been completed, while 14 more are currently under construction, with a combined capacity of over 200 MWp.

Smart Use of Industrial Land

Unlike some countries where solar farms compete with agriculture for land, many of ČEZ’s solar installations are being built on brownfields and post-mining landscapes—areas previously used for heavy industry or coal extraction.

Locations like Tušimice and Prunéřov, once symbols of fossil fuel dominance, are now being reimagined as hubs of renewable energy. These sites already have transmission infrastructure in place, reducing the need for new investments in grid connectivity.

“These areas are challenging, but they make sense. We’re using land that can’t be farmed and turning it into something productive,” said Zelenka.

The planned mega-installations at Tušimice and Prunéřov will eventually produce up to 700 MWp, making them the largest solar power developments in the country’s history.

Responsible Growth: From Community Talks to Recycling Plans

Building solar parks on industrial land comes with technical and regulatory hurdles, but perhaps the most sensitive part of the process is public perception. ČEZ has placed strong emphasis on community engagement, regularly attending town hall meetings to discuss upcoming projects and address concerns.

Another key focus is what happens after the solar panels reach the end of their 30-year lifespan. ČEZ has pledged to restore sites for agricultural use and manage solar panel disposal through its recycling arm, ČEZ Recyklace.

The Bigger Picture: How Solar Fits into Czech Energy Policy

Despite the recent solar boom, the Czech energy system remains heavily reliant on coal and nuclear power. As of 2024, coal still accounts for nearly half of electricity generation, while nuclear provides around 41%. Renewables currently make up less than 6%, with solar energy at just 1.5%—though that figure is now rising rapidly.

The Czech government aims to boost renewables to 22% of electricity production by 2030, with solar energy expected to carry much of that load. Nuclear power will also grow, especially with planned new reactors set to be operational in the next decade.

Momentum with Meaning

While solar still represents a small piece of the national energy puzzle, its role is growing both in scale and in symbolism. The dramatic rise in solar capacity in 2023 suggests not just a technical pivot, but a societal and strategic one.

The Czech Republic, long associated with coal mining and centralized power generation, is beginning to embrace a more diverse, decentralized, and sustainable energy future—one solar panel at a time.