“We can do more” was the message from the European Wind Energy Association as it kicked off its annual conference in Paris this morning.
Chairman Markus Tacke, who is also chief executive of Siemens Wind Power and Renewables, told delegates at the opening session of EWEA 2015 the industry must aim higher.
“It is more important than ever to meet here in Paris with COP 21 coming up. The wind industry has a unique offer for the political leaders who will have a lot of questions placed on their tables. We must keep reaching and pushing forward.
“The wind industry has come a long way from a niche technology from a mainstream player.
“The industry can provide Europe with a secure and capable technology. For that Europe needs to maintain leadership in wind industry. I encourage all of those participating to not let this important opportunity pass away. All of us, including our children, will be watching.
He said the industry is ready to offer “the most affordable power generation in a very competitive market”.
France minister for sustainable development and energy Segolene Royal told delegates: “Climate change is a matter of life and death for many. We have made an extraordinary journey so far but we have only taken the first step.
“The energy transition will be important and we have to ramp up renewable energy sources which is the main solution to climate change management.
“We have to drive down our greenhouse gas emissions and it is up to you to prove it is affordable and available for us going forward.”
The four day event was opened with a moment of silence following the loss of life in Paris last Friday.
Tacke said: “When we were deciding to proceed we had to weigh things up. We simply cannot allow a small group of terrorists to decide whether our industry, which has some important messages to tell, will meet or not.”
Image: Nordex
