Renewable Europe
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Three questions for Seda Orhan
More than 11 per cent from solar. A good 17 per cent from wind. Over 47 per cent from renewables. Their contribution to Europe’s electricity supply has steadily increased. And when it comes to final energy consumption, too, solar, wind and other renewables have become key players in the European energy system in recent years, currently accounting for a 23 per cent share. The EU has set itself an even more ambitious renewables target of 42.5 per cent of final energy consumption by 2030. How can it be reached? We spoke with Seda Orhan, Head of Energy at Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe.
What are the highest barriers to renewable energies in Europe?
That varies considerably. In many cases, there is a skills gap in planning and delivering power generation facilities, as well as a lack of reliable data on regions with suitable sites. Other obstacles include poor coordination between the different ministries and public authorities, but also political instability in some countries. And there are very many local conflicts around renewable energies, often resulting from a failure to involve European citizens and a lack of transparency in project implementation.
What can be done to boost local community participation in the renewables expansion?
Energy communities, such as those that exist in Germany, are a very effective mechanism. Here, power generation and sales are in the hands of local citizens, municipalities and local enterprises. Another factor which is always important is ensuring that local people benefit financially from the power plants that come into their neighbourhoods – in other words, that the profits are channelled into the community. There must also be transparency and genuine inclusion that builds trust and reaches people who perhaps don’t feel a connection to the issue.
Apart from that, what is the most effective approach for driving renewable energies forward in the EU?
The Renewable Energy Directive, which was revised in 2023 – or RED III, for short – is a key mechanism that is genuinely capable of accelerating the expansion. For example, it provides for a simpler licensing process for renewable energy plants while also increasing stability and reliability for investors. On top of that, among other things, there needs to be comprehensive and coordinated mapping of sites in Europe where expansion is worthwhile, as well as a consistent rollout of infrastructure; by that, I mean storage facilities and grids. This must include smart grids which support the efficient integration of renewable energies into the power supply system. We should also see the transformation of our energy system as a joint European project – one which must be implemented fairly and is based on solidarity so that it delivers for everyone.
Seda Orhan is Head of Energy at Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe.
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