EU: Renewable energy strategy kicks off in Amsterdam

The proposed objectives of the Campaign for Take-off for renewable energy in Europe from now until the year 2003 are:

• One million PV systems
• 15 million metres squared of solar collectors
• 10,000 MW of wind turbine generators
• 10,000 MW of CHP biomass installations
• One million dwellings heated by biomass
• 1,000 MW of biogas installations
• 5 million tonnes of liquid biofuels

These objectives set out in the European Commission White Paper for a Community Strategy and Action Plan are intended to contribute to the overall target of doubling the share of Renewable Energy Sources from 6 % to 12 % by 2010.

“We are now ready to begin the implementation of this strategy by launching ‘The Campaign for Take-off’, a campaign where key sectors in the field of renewable energy will combine to meet these objectives on a national and a Community level,” says Mariàngels Pérez-Latorre, Head of section, New and Renewable Energy Sources, European Commission DGXVII. The Commission will establish the framework, provide some financial and technical assistance, and co-ordinate actions. Both public and private sector contributions will be needed realise the objectives.

The conference is intended to demonstrate numerous examples of the direction in which Europe is heading and open avenues of co-operation. One of these is the opportunity to take part in the Renewable Energy Partnership. Members of the partnership will, within the scope of their responsibilities and potential, join the campaign and contribute towards fulfilment of its objectives. The Renewable Energy Partnership includes the Commission and public authorities, industries and associations, and also promoters within framework agreements for the implementation of projects involving renewable energy sources.