WindEurope has launched a campaign to mobilise the 300,000 people who work in wind energy throughout Europe to go and vote in the upcoming European elections on 23-26 May.
The new campaign has the tagline: “For more renewables, vote in the European Parliament elections 23-26 May”.
The campaign aims to encourage voter turnout to ensure Europe remains on the right track in terms of its climate ambition.
WindEurope said the European Parliament is a key enabler of renewable energy, having fought for the 32% EU renewables target for 2030.
Last year the parliament also pushed for more EU finance for renewables and R&D funding and secured key improvements to make Europe’s electricity markets ready for clean power, it added
WindEurope said: “This year could see parties that are less committed to fighting climate change gain ground.
“They are generally still sceptical about renewable energy, despite all the economic benefits it delivers: cheaper electricity; reduced energy imports and greater energy independence; local jobs and growth; and benefits to local communities.
“These parties thrive on low turnout, making these elections crucial.”
WindEurope chief executive Giles Dickson (pictured) said: “These elections are crucial for renewables.
“The current European Parliament fought for ambition and got a 32% renewable energy target for 2030.
“Delivering this would mean wind becomes Europe’s number one source of electricity by 2027. But the growth of renewables is not inevitable.
“If there is low turnout in this month’s European Parliament elections, parties that are more sceptical about renewables could become very influential in the next five years.
“They could undermine all the progress Europe’s made so far.
“That’s why we’re encouraging people to get out there and vote. The 300,000 people who work in wind energy in Europe can make a difference.”