Members' Research Service By / August 31, 2022

Solar energy in the EU [Policy Podcast]

As the European Union (EU) struggles with the dual challenges of energy security concerns and high energy prices in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, domestic energy production and efficiency gains are becoming increasingly important.

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Written by Agnieszka Widuto.

The EU solar energy strategy proposed under the REPowerEU plan aims to make solar energy a cornerstone of the EU energy system. Boosting renewable energy is also an important part of the European Green Deal in the context of the green transition towards climate neutrality. Solar energy is affordable, clean and has been the fastest-growing energy source in the last decade. It can be used for electricity and heating, while also helping reduce EU dependency on energy imports by replacing them with domestic production.

EU measures to boost solar energy include making the installation of solar panels on the rooftops of new buildings obligatory within a specific timeframe, streamlining permitting procedures for renewable energy projects, improving the skills base in the solar sector and boosting the EU’s capacity to manufacture photovoltaic panels.

Video: Solar energy in the EU

Several challenges still need addressing, however. These include competition for land use with other sectors, technological issues, skills shortages and the need to prevent a new energy dependency on non-EU solar panel producers.

The ambitious plan includes doubling the current level of solar photovoltaic capacity by 2025 and producing almost 600 GW by 2030. Achieving these goals will depend on continued commitment to renewable energy deployment, success in addressing a number of challenges, and the ability to unlock the full potential of solar energy in the EU, for instance, by boosting domestic solar production and the use of new technologies.


Read the complete briefing on ‘Solar energy in the EU‘ in the Think Tank pages of the European Parliament.

Listen to policy podcast ‘Solar energy in the EU’ on YouTube.

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Comments
  • Thank you so much for sharing some valuable inputs on solar energy . It is so appreciated that you have focused on the renewable source of energy generation which is the future. Having our own energy with the exhaustible sun is a great thing. I could see there is an alarming need to switch to solar and your blog clearly indicates that. It is very informative that everyone can be aware of the importance of solar energy and the need to make the change. I found it extremely helpful and sure to find the ways that would enable me to enter into a green world powered by solar energy.

    Regards
    Venugopal Subramani
    https://powernsun.co.za/

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