THE SUN TIMES

Solar energy is now the fastest-growing energy technology globally. It’s not just the cheapest; it’s also the most versatile and easily deployed. Solar’s true superpower lies in its universal benefits. From farmers and business owners to public services and families, solar energy enhances resilience, competitiveness, and prosperity across the board. 

In recent years, Europe has laid the foundation for this solar-powered future. Ambitious solar targets have been set to reinforce the continent’s energy security and curb global warming to 1.5°C. EU law now mandates increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix to at least 42.5% by 2030. Moreover, the vision includes installing solar on all new EU rooftops and accelerating permitting procedures. 

However, the real work begins now. With less than half a decade until 2030, there is no time for complacency. We must maintain our momentum to make this solar future a reality. 

Solar energy is poised and ready. Our recent achievements speak volumes. In the past two years, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Europe installed 100 GW of solar power. This capacity is enough to power 30 million additional homes and save Europe €60 billion on Russian gas imports. During the energy crisis, solar energy shielded millions of Europeans from volatile energy prices, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring energy security and a prosperous future for the continent. 

The widespread appeal of solar energy is undeniable. The stories in this magazine showcase how people and communities are better connected due to solar energy; farmers benefiting from increased crop yield and additional revenue streams; small businesses to energy intensive industries reducing their carbon footprint and their energy bills. 

Europe continues to be a hub of innovation and research, constantly finding new ways to make solar energy more efficient and cost-effective. At this critical juncture, we must focus on areas that will propel us further and faster. We must ensure our grids can handle increased solar capacity, deploying more flexibility measures like battery storage, making sure no ray of sunshine goes to waste. 

We also need to build and support a robust solar manufacturing industry in Europe. The European Union has set a goal of achieving at least 30 GW of European solar manufacturing at each stage of the value chain by 2030. We have a long way to go, but the implementation of the Net-Zero Industry Act is a leap in the right direction. 

Earlier this year, energy ministers from 23 EU Member States, as well as over 100 solar sector representatives, signed the EU Solar Charter. This marked an important moment of recognition for solar’s role in leading Europe towards a new era of green prosperity and security. 

Let us continue to work diligently to build a present we can be proud of and leave a shining legacy for future generations.