Continuing on today’s energy path without any change in policies would not only mean that the pressing issue of climate change is not addressed, but also that our dependency on fossil fuels is set to increase. We would be bound to unpredictable energy prices, all of which would result in detrimental impacts on Europe’s economy and in energy insecurity.

The only way to avoid the ever increasing energy dependence of the European Union is to develop the abundant renewable energy potential of all EU Member States. Hence, the RES industry believes that Europe should lead the way with a clear commitment to a 100% renewable energy future by 2050. Certainly, this is challenging. But it is the only true sustainable alternative to the energy system we currently have, in environmental, social and economic terms.

Figure 7: Contribution of Renewable Electricity Technologies to Electricity Consumption (TWh)

Figure 8: Contribution of Renewable Heating and Cooling Technologies to H&C Consumption (Mtoe)

Figure 9: Contribution of Biofuels to Transport Fuel Deman (Mtoe)

Figure 10: Contribution of Renewable Energy Technologies to Final Energy Consumption (Mtoe)