EWEA CEO Calls EU Heads of State to Back 30 Pct Renewables Target

Authorities & Government

EWEA CEO Calls EU Heads of State to Back 30 Pct Renewables Target

Energy ministers must support a binding renewable energy target of no less than 30% for 2030 as the best way to promote green growth, jobs and industrial leadership when they meet tomorrow. So urged CEO of the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) Thomas Becker in a letter to EU Heads of State and Governments today. 

The wind energy sector has created more than 250,000 jobs, with European wind companies becoming global leaders, Becker points out, referring to the wide support from industry and renewable energy CEOs at their press event on 12 February.

The Commission 2030 Impact assessment found that a renewables target of 30% would create 568,000 more jobs in Europe by 2030, and save €260 billion in fossil fuel imports compared to the 27% target proposed by the Commission.

Following the discussion by environment ministers today, and energy ministers tomorrow, EU Heads of State will meet on this topic on 20-21 March.

Press release, March 3, 2014; Image: EWEA