The Solar CEO Forum then folds into the SolarPower Summit 2023, gathering policymakers, industry experts, and stakeholders across the value chain. During the two-day conference we will discuss the hottest solar topics, network and uncover the brightest solar business ideas and innovations. The Summit comes at a critical time, as solar PV is booming across Europe, playing a critical role in leading Europe out of the energy crisis. The annual event comes just one week before the European Commission is expected to publish landmark legislative proposals, including the Net-Zero Industry Act; Electricity Market Design Revision; and Critical Raw Materials Act.
The time is now. The race is on. We must get Europe ready for solar.
As energy and climate crises rage on, it has never been more crucial to transition from fossil fuels, and accelerate towards a 100% renewable energy system. An essential part of this trajectory is setting ambitious intermediate targets to keep us on track, and ensure the most cost-efficient energy transition.
At the end of the month, EU Ministers are expected to negotiate with the European Parliament and the Commission on the EU renewable energy target for 2030. In May last year, the European Commission proposed an increased renewable energy target for Europe for 2030, in line with our asks through our ‘Yes to 45% RES’ campaign. The European Parliament is also in favour of this 45% target. Before final negotiations take place this month, we urge the Council of the European Union to back a 45% renewable energy target in Europe for 2030.
Anything below 45% is not compatible with a 1.5°C global warming limit. Restricting ambition will only delay the energy transition, prolong our dependence on fossil energy imports, fuel further inflation, and fundamentally compromise our ability to meet legally binding climate targets.
Compared to the lower ambition on the table, a 40% taregt, a 45% RES target would halve the EU’s gas imports needed, saving EUR 200 billion between 2025 and 2030. Scaling up renewables faster saves an additional EUR 76 billion in energy systems costs, and prevents annual emissions from Europe by the equivalent of 455 metric tons of CO2 – this is equal to the annual emissions of France.
Read our letter to the Swedish Presidency of the European Council calling for a minimum 45% renewable energy target here.
It is fair to say that this month is shaping up to be a very important month for solar.
We look forward to seeing you next week at the SolarPower Summit to discuss all of these matters and more in real time. If you can’t make it, follow along on our SolarPower Europe social media channels using the hashtag #SolarPowerSummit, and hopefully we’ll see you in person in 2024!
Interested in becoming a member?
Why become a member?
Do you want to stay up-to-date about solar energy?
