Electrification Alliance: 30% Reduction in Final Energy Consumption and Elimination of Fossil Fuels

The recent press release from SolarPower Europe highlights the role of the Electrification Alliance in the European energy context.

In particular, the countries that have joined the European alliance foresee a significant increase in the electrification rate, which is expected to more than double by 2040.

This increase will lead to a 30% reduction in the EU's final energy consumption compared to current levels, marking a significant step towards greater energy efficiency and sustainability.

Electrification Alliance: Adequate Funds Needed to Support Electrification

To achieve electrification goals, the EU must establish clear and concrete objectives. An action plan dedicated to electrification, with an interim target of at least 35% electrification by 2030, is considered essential to put the European economy on the right track.

Despite marked optimism, concerns arise regarding the over-reliance on technologies that are not yet fully tested and potentially costly. The Commission's communication has raised concerns due to ambiguous signals sent to stakeholders, who need to plan long-term investments and resources, risking slowing collective progress towards climate goals.

Another critical issue is the gradual phase-out of fossil fuels and related subsidies, an aspect that seems still underestimated. At the same time, it is essential to allocate adequate funds to directly support electrification, not only as an environmental urgency but also as an economic imperative to ensure a fair transition.

Direct electrification emerges as a "no-regrets" solution for decarbonizing the European economy, thanks to the use of mature and market-ready technologies. These offer a convenient path and efficiencies towards decarbonization, but their success depends on clear policies and adequate investments at both the national and European levels.

It is crucial to promote the development and adoption of local clean energy sources and technologies, such as solar and wind energy, heat pumps, and electric mobility, while integrating smart services to maximize their potential.

A Considerable Commitment is Needed to Expand European Electrical Infrastructure

Furthermore, a considerable commitment is required to expand and modernize the electric grid infrastructure, while also improving system reliability, demand flexibility, and energy storage capacity.

European policymakers are called upon to quickly complete negotiations on the energy taxation directive to eliminate fiscal disparities that still favor fossil fuels over clean energy.

Moreover, it is essential to prioritize electrified solutions that not only enable emissions reductions but also help reduce energy consumption and costs, thereby strengthening the competitiveness and resilience of the European market.