2023/07/14 | 便利屋Reレンジャー | 未分類
Photovoltaics and Wind Status in the European Union After the Paris Agreement
The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015, brought together nations from all over the world with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting global warming to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels. The European Union (EU), as a signatory to the agreement, committed to reducing its emissions by at least 40% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. As one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases in the world, the EU must take significant steps towards fulfilling its commitment. One of these steps has been the increased adoption of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaics and wind power.
Photovoltaics, or solar power, transform sunlight into electricity through the use of photovoltaic cells. In the EU, the adoption of photovoltaics has been steadily increasing over the years. In 2018, the EU added 16.7 GW of photovoltaic capacity, bringing its total to 131 GW. This capacity is expected to further increase in the coming years, with the EU forecasting a 25% share of electricity supply from photovoltaic sources by 2030. The EU is also investing heavily in research and development to improve photovoltaic technologies, with the European Commission having set a goal of halving the cost of photovoltaic electricity by 2030.
Wind power is another renewable energy source that has seen significant adoption in the EU. Wind turbines harness the power of wind to generate electricity. In 2018, the EU added 11.7 GW of wind power capacity, bringing its total to 178 GW. This capacity is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, with the EU setting a goal of achieving a 50% share of electricity supply from wind power by 2050. The EU is also investing in offshore wind power, with the goal of reaching 300 GW of total capacity by 2050.
The adoption of photovoltaics and wind power is crucial to achieving the EU`s emissions reduction goals. These renewable energy sources produce zero greenhouse gas emissions, making them a major contributor to reducing the EU`s carbon footprint. Additionally, renewable energy sources such as photovoltaics and wind power can be installed in a decentralised manner, allowing for greater energy independence and self-sufficiency. This decentralisation also helps to reduce transmission losses, making renewable energy sources more efficient and cost-effective.
In conclusion, the adoption of photovoltaics and wind power in the EU has been steadily increasing over the years, with the EU setting ambitious goals for their continued adoption. These renewable energy sources are crucial to achieving the EU`s emissions reduction goals and reducing the carbon footprint of the region. With increased investment in research and development, and a continued focus on decentralisation, the EU is on track to become a leader in the adoption of renewable energy sources.