According to the European Commission (EC), decarbonisation of the European energy sector by 2050 is technically feasible. In its energy road map 2050, the EC addresses the framework of policies that need to be put in place to achieve this without disrupting competitiveness and energy supplies.
The document looks at a number of scenarios around a carbon-free energy system needed to hit the EU’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050. The scenarios include for main routes to decarbonistation; energy efficiency, nuclear and carbon capture and storage (CCS) and renewables. Some key points from the document are that:
– All decarbonistation scenarios can achieve the 80% nemission reduction target and can be less costly than than current policies in the long term.
– Energy efficiency and renewable energy are critical to meet the targets, as is greater electrification;
– The earlier the investment, the cheaper the overall cost; and
– if Europe works together and creates a common energy market, costs will lower.
The publication of the roadmap however has not been without criticism, the European Renewable Energy Council (EREC) has accused it of lacking clear direction in getting to the 80% target. European news agency EurActiv has also reported that the roadmap has been criticised for not including immediate targets in the run up to 2050.
