– Solar energy targets in Europe have increased by an average of 87%
– Grid and flexibility planning are trailing behind renewable goals, putting the energy transition at risk
– Most EU countries fail to plan for empowering the use of renewables 24/7, day or night.
Solar energy targets in Europe have increased by an average of 87%, according to Solar Power Europe. Member states have updated their National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) to reflect this increase, with Lithuania and Ireland notably increasing their targets by more than 5 and 10 times, respectively. Despite the boost in ambition, the NECPs do not reflect the necessary investments in grid deployment, flexibility, and digitalization, which are crucial for the energy transition.
Solar Power Europe warns that without proper energy system planning, solar projects will be hindered, and the business case for solar energy will suffer. The lack of planning for energy storage, demand-side response, and grid infrastructure puts unnecessary pressure on the electricity grid. Only France and Malta have set plans to invest in their distribution grid, while most EU countries fail to plan for empowering the use of renewables 24/7.
The EU is projected to fall short of the Solar Strategy target of 750GW by 2030, with current ambitions totaling 626GW. Member states have until June 30th to submit any updates to their NECPs before they are finalized. Solar Power Europe emphasizes the need for better coordination between energy generation targets and energy system planning to ensure a smooth energy transition in Europe.