Europe’s electricity system could reach Net Zero faster than anticipated, according to the industry’s European lobby group Eurelectric, if nine policy recommendations are implemented.
Kristian Ruby, Eurelectric secretary generals said: “To deliver on the ambition, it is critical to have the right investment signals and remove all barriers stalling progress. Especially permitting lead times for new power projects must be shortened as a matter of priority.”
In its annual Power Barometer the group noted that in less than a decade, electricity capacity must increase by 27% versus 2020. This corresponds to a 93% growth in renewable capacity. It said this was achievable only if Europe’s permitting processes radically change.
In addition, investment must ramp up to close the ambition gap. By 2030, investment in distribution must double to €55 billion annually, whereas clean generation capacities need €75 billion per annum.
Finally end-use sectors must electrify faster, up from today’s 23% to a minimum of 33% of the economy by 2030.
The group’s nine policy recommendations are”

• Remove barriers for renewables deployment: facilitate permitting
• Establish predictable, long-term market-based investment frameworks for all technologies
• Ensure necessary investment in grid infrastructure by modernising tariffs and ensuring access to EU funds
• Implement network codes quickly to achieve a pan-European electricity market model
• Establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for flexibility solutions
• Boost deployment of public (fast) charging points for electric vehicles along TEN-T networks and in urban areas
• Accelerate electrification in buildings, transport and industry
• Reduce taxes & levies on electricity
• Ensure proper functioning of the Emissions Trading Scheme by avoiding national measures that jeopardise its final objective