A new report has called for Europe to declare its wind sector as an industry of strategic importance to help instigate the technology and capacity necessary to deliver the European Green Deal.
In a new white paper, Siemens Gamesa warns that the current energy crisis jeopardises Europe’s future as a leader in renewable energy, and its freedom to make independent energy decisions.
However, it said that the wind industry can contribute to providing Europe with energy security and independence through domestic, clean and competitive sources, but only if European governments act swiftly to guarantee it is treated as a strategic industry.
The “Europe’s energy sovereignty is in imminent danger: why we need the European wind industry – and how to safeguard it” paper highlights the steps that can be implemented at a Europe-wide level to mitigate these risks and realise the green energy transition.
According to the white paper, European wind turbine manufacturers currently create the most advanced wind turbines for use both on land and at sea.
However, the sector’s ability to produce profitably is currently threatened by auctions solely driven by price, slow permitting and, ultimately, soaring prices for energy, commodities and transport.
As a result, wind turbine manufacturers are operating at massive losses and cannot invest to satisfy growing demands for wind energy.
The paper highlights what can be implemented at a Europe-wide level to mitigate these and deliver the green energy transition.
These include accelerating the approval of wind power plant permits and establishing a visible project-pipeline for manufacturers and suppliers to load existing factories, and plan for new capacities.
In addition, it calls for the management of price risks and stabilisation of supply chains while compensating for inflation rises.
It also advocates authorities supporting domestic innovation and foster technology competence, noting that energy security cannot be achieved through auctions solely based on price.
Siemens Gamesa CEO Jochen Eickholt commented: “This white paper clearly states the simple safeguards that the wind industry requires from regulators to deliver European energy security and timely energy transition.
“Without intervention and cooperation among governments, manufacturers and suppliers, the energy transition here in Europe will become unattainable and Europe will lose its position as a global leader in the wind industry.
“The implications for European countries, and the rest of the world, are obvious. We urge regulators to take on board the five imperatives detailed in this white paper, and to work with us to deliver them. Without these safeguards, Europe’s energy independence is impossible.”