New horizons for solar in Europe
Just last week at the first plenary in Strasbourg since the June elections, Ursula von der Leyen was re-elected for a second term as President of the European Commission. President von der Leyen’s re-election offers a welcome stability for Europe, recognising her critical role in guiding the continent through the wave of crises in recent years.
The President’s speech in plenary confirms that delivering the Green Deal remains a priority under the new Commission mandate, with a focus on implementation and investment. This is good news for Europe and for the energy transition.
Europe’s energy, security, and climate goals are dependent on taking new steps in accelerating energy system flexibility and electrification. We’re facing deep system change that will bring incredible benefits – but it needs political commitment.
Green competitiveness is the launchpad to sustainable growth. We’re pleased to see the new EU Clean Industrial Deal, reflecting our June letter supported by over 550 signatories from across society and the economy. Our modelling shows that renewables and flexible electrification will reduce energy costs by 25% in 2030 and 33% by 2040, structurally shielding European business and industry from further fossil fuel volatility and building a new era of clean competitiveness and prosperity.
In establishing her new College of Commissioners, we urge President von der Leyen to acknowledge the need for Europe to rapidly accelerate its energy flexibility and electrification plans.
Throughout the week in Strasbourg, the SolarPower Europe team were present, soaking up the atmosphere and meeting with new MEPs to engage on key messages for the sector. Catch up on our ultimate action plan for solar for the next five years here.
The SolarPower Europe team also had some time for reflection during our Team Away Day earlier in the month. It was great to celebrate the team’s award-winning efforts in the first half of the year; several report launches, engaging campaigns, next level events. We also took the time to exchange on how we can continue to grow and support the sector in the coming years. Channelling a positive and inspiring company culture is something we deeply value, and it was a pleasure to visualise this together as a team with our new solar mural which now proudly decorates our offices in Brussels.
On behalf of the whole team, we wish you a restful summer and look forward to welcoming a new dawn for solar with a range of activities throughout September.
