Parallel to the entry in force of the first Directives on electricity and gas, the Commission issued “White Paper on Renewable Sources of Energy” in 1997. With its objective to have a 12% share of electricity produced from renewable sources by 2010, promotion of renewables became an integral part of energy policy agendas. By definition renewable energy sources bring together all renewable non-fossil energy sources. These include wind, solar, geothermal, wave, tidal, hydropower, biomass, landfill gas, sewage treatment plant gas and biogases.
Today, in light of the Kyoto Protocol commitment, increased usage of electricity produced from renewable energy sources constitutes the best possible means to combat the climate change. Putting emphasis on renewable sources can also benefit rural development. It enables development of small local businesses and diversification of supply patterns at regional level.
Pursuant to the Treaty establishing the Energy Community, the Contracting Parties are committed to draft an action plan, outlining the implementation of the acquis communautaire on renewable energy sources. The institutional setting of the Energy Community will assists, guide and benchmark the process.
