CEPS lunchtime seminar on 4 November 2009: Implementation of the EU’s Renewable Energy Targets for 2020

A CEPS lunchtime seminar on 4 November dealt with the implementation of the EU’s new renewable energy targets for 2020. Hans van Steen of the European Commission stressed the importance of the National Renewable Energy Action Plans (NREAPs) to be finalised by member states by mid-2010. They will set the path for each member state to meet its national target, thus increasing transparency and creating predictability for investors. The plans will also be critical for the Commission’s ability to effectively enforce the renewables Directive and keep member states on track with respect to their targets. Adel El Gammal of the European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA) highlighted the impressive growth of the photovoltaic capacity, both in Europe and worldwide, and noted that with increasing competitiveness of the technology, it may contribute as much as 12% to EU electricity demand by 2020. However, PV penetration will depend on market support and the flexibility of the electricity grid. Thorsten Schneiders of E.ON presented his company’s climate and renewables strategy, calling for a long-term stable and reliable investment framework, which was not yet present in EU member states. He particularly called for more flexibility of support schemes, a political concept for the simultaneous extension of the grid as well as international standards in issuing permits and safety. Finally, Christian Kjaer of the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) pointed out that while the renewables Directive was a politically ambitious piece of legislation, the 20% renewables target was not far away from ‘business-as-usual’ levels. He described how the energy mix was already changing, with almost 60% of newly installed capacity in the EU being renewable in 2008. According to EWEA, the share of wind energy in EU electricity demand could increase from 4.1% in 2008 to some 14-17% in 2020.

Slides of the event:

Solar PV. Mainstream energy source by 2020 - A. El Gammal, Secretary General, EPIA

Implementing the EUs Renewable Energy Targets - Christian Kjaer, Chief Executive, European Wind Energy Association

E.ON´s renewables activities in the light of the EU 2020 targets - Thorsten Schneiders, Head of Energy Policy, E.ON Climate&Renewables

Implementing the EU’s renewable energy targets for 2020 - Hans van Steen, Head of Unit, DG TREN, European Commission