Renewable energy

The transport and energy sectors remain reliant on fossil fuels as well as contributing to air pollution. AirClim advocates for a transition to renewable energy, electrification, and enhanced energy efficiency.

The integration of renewable sources into electricity grids is reshaping the way many nations approach sustainability. But Central Eastern European (CEE) countries are grappling with regulatory obstacles, technical challenges, and a lingering reliance on fossil fuels. A new report by CAN Europe presents a roadmap to overcome these barriers.

Action needs to go beyond the usual technological solutions, countries must consider not just kilowatts and power lines, but also include the social dimensions of energy transition.

High upfront costs, limited financing options, and a lack of awareness among landlords and tenants are some of the barriers for renewable heating adoption in the rental sector. In a recent briefing CAN Europe proposes solutions to facilitate the transition.

The CLEVER scenario, a Collaborative Low Energy Vision for the European Region, is an energy transition scenario that follows a “sufficiency – efficiency – renewables” approach.

In the face of heatwaves and growing concerns about water scarcity, Sun'Agri, a French agrivoltaics specialist, has published insights on the positive impact of temperature regulation, water resource management and crop yields under agrivoltaic installations.

Paris Agreement compatible scenarios need the EU to do much more to reduce emissions and increase renewables and energy savings.

With the sustained heat, drought and forest fires that are wreaking havoc across Europe, one would think European countries would be incentivised to increase action to tackle climate change.

Climate Action Network International (CAN) has issued several statements and articles in 2022 outlining how the UN should act on science policy in reviewing the long-term goal of the Climate Convention at COP 27.

In September, the European Parliament voted on several proposals to address the energy crisis. Meanwhile the EU Commission proposed a new law to manage energy prices. 

An increasing number of research studies show that an energy system based solely on renewable energy sources is possible by or before 2050.

An artificial island, with wind power and installations to convert excess energy into fuel, is planned in the North Sea. When completed it may provide electricity for 10 million households. 

The huge emissions from the steel industry can be virtually eliminated by using hydrogen from green power, or from other electric processes. CCS is not used, not needed and not likely to be a mitigation option.

Europe’s top court has ruled that the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) cannot be used in lawsuits between EU countries.

The European Commission’s proposal “Fit for 55” includes new targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency.  They have to go further to be in line with the 1.5°C goal.

Poland’s ministry of energy has prepared a draft bill to support the development of offshore wind energy off the northern European country’s coast.