A European Union for Renewable Energy

The European Union needs a common vision for its energy future. A shift towards renewable energy sources will increase security of supply, foster the competitiveness of the European economy and facilitate sustainability. In order to convince governments, businesses and European citizens to support this shift, it is necessary to demonstrate the practical feasibility of the vision.

We are now at a critical point in time to accelerate the transition to renewables in Europe and to make necessary investments and adjustments. Around two thirds of all power plants will have to be replaced in the coming years. At the same time, large parts of the European transmission and distribution grid require modernisation and are in need of reinvestment. With the phase-out of nuclear power in several European countries, opportunities to replace large quantities of nuclear energy with renewables are plentiful. With a feasibility study on a European Community for Renewable Energies (ERENE), the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung promoted the vision of completely covering European electricity needs through renewable energies through joint European action.

Expert Meetings on the Europeanisation of Renewables

The European Commission’s Energy Roadmap 2050 explores routes towards a decarbonised energy system. A greater share of renewables will strengthen all of the EU’s major energy goals and commitment to substantially reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change. In June 2012, the Commission outlined options for the EU’s renewable energy policy beyond 2020. The future of grids and the development of support and remuneration schemes are key factors for the transformation to a renewable energy-based system in Europe.

A European Community for Renewable Energies

Claude Turmes, Green MEP A Renewable Energy Future for Europe - Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union

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Daniel Fürstenwerth - Better Grids for a European Union for Renewable Energy - Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union

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A European Union for Renewable Energy – Policy Options for Better Grids and Support Schemes

Our publication “A European Union for Renewable Energy” provides a collection of innovative policy ideas for better grids and support schemes for renewable energy sources. The report argues for an enhanced European cooperation in order to facilitate the shift towards renewable energy sources. More coordination at the European level would increase security of supply, reduce costs, enhance innovation and foster the competitiveness of the European economy.