EU unveils Energy Roadmap 2050

Brussels, 15 December 2011 – The EC has presented its Energy Roadmap 2050, which presents its plans for achieving the goal of cutting emissions by over 80% by 2050. The document outlines the policy framework needed to reach a carbon free energy system.

The roadmap is based on an analysis of five decarbonising scenarios, created by combining in different ways the four main decarbonisation routes (energy efficiency, renewables, nuclear and CCS). All scenarios clearly show a set of "no regrets" options for the coming years, and the document outlines a number of elements and actions that will help reach the target:

• Decarbonisation of the energy system is technically and economically feasible.
• Increased energy efficiency and more renewables are crucial to meeting CO2 targets.
• A European approach will secure supply and result in lower costs.
• Early investment will avoid more costly changes further down the line.
• A rise in energy prices can be avoided by early investment in new technologies.

During a press conference, the EC said that scenarios involving more energy efficiency and renewables will cost about the same as if Europe continues to rely heavily on fossil fuels and nuclear power. Furthermore, coal- and gas-fired power installations will only have a future in Europe if equipped with carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.

New binding EU renewables targets for 2030 were also suggested, to give investors long-term certainty. The Roadmap states that a much higher share of renewable energy was essential to any scenario that provides Europe with a secure energy supply.

To read more about the Roadmap, click here.