Horizon Europe: Harnessing innovation in renewables to deliver for EU citizens
Renewable energy technology has been crucial in reducing the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions and delivering economic growth. But if the Paris Agreement goals are to be met, much remains to be done:
- Despite rapid growth, in 2017 solar and wind power still represented only 15.6% of total gross EU electricity generation1 – a fraction of their full potential;
- 81% of the EU’s heating and cooling is still supplied by fossil fuels2 ; -and-
- Future innovations in transport and heating/cooling must be powered by renewable energy, if they are to genuinely contribute to decarbonisation efforts
Improvements in mature renewable technologies and the development of new renewable technologies are fundamental in the fight against climate change.
They have also delivered immediate benefits for EU citizens. More than 1 million jobs have been created; a new multi-billion industry has been established; security of supply has been strengthened; air pollution has reduced; and power is being supplied to consumers at unprecedentedly low prices.
EU research and innovation policy is a key tool to deliver these industrial, social and climate benefits.
Horizon Europe must therefore set ambitious objectives for the progression of renewable energy technology, with corresponding budgets. The actions taken or not taken up to 2027 will determine whether the Paris Agreement targets are met.
We cannot afford for Horizon Europe to become a missed opportunity.