How Europe can rapidly reduce its gas dependency

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them,” Albert Einstein famously said. Yet this is exactly what the European Commission appears to be doing in its forthcoming strategy for more affordable, secure and sustainable energy. Michaela Holl and Jan Rosenow break down Europe’s history with fossil gas to underscore the importance of a rapid expansion in wind, solar and green electricity.

Heat pump sales rising around the world

Reducing energy consumption — gas in particular — is a burning issue in Europe. With experts promoting heat pumps to electrify and decarbonise buildings, this technology will likely see rapid growth. The pace of adoption, however, and how it measures up against pathways to net zero, will depend strongly on government policies and energy price trends. Jan Rosenow and Duncan Gibb analysed global heat pump markets and recommend strategies to further bolster the deployment of heat pumps.

The energy transition needs unity in times of crisis

As Europeans band together to try to ease the suffering of those affected by the war in Ukraine, many also face another struggle closer to home. Millions are trying to shoulder the high energy prices of the current crisis. In an article for Tagesspiegel Background, Andreas Jahn explores social injustices in the German energy sector and calls for a fair and equitable energy transition. (Article in German.)

Polish energy strategy at crossroads

The war in Ukraine has turned European energy policy and politics upside down. Tackling this current challenge requires an ever-greater push for renewables and energy efficiency to reduce dependency on Russian gas. Monika Morawiecka examines the situation in the context of Poland’s energy sector and explains the urgent need for energy security. (Article in Polish.)

FURTHER NOTES

• Listen in to the two new episodes of the Watt Matters podcast with Eurelectric’s Kristian Ruby and with Alix Chambris of Viessman Group and Brian Vad Mathiesen of Aalborg University (out 25 March).

Listen here

• Join the next Electrification Academy webinar featuring Hannele Holttinen of the International Energy Agency.

Register now

Before joining RAP, Mandy Mahoney, director of U.S. programmes, ran for the City of Atlanta’s District 5 City Council seat. Although her bid was unsuccessful, she campaigned for two critical issues: climate change and affordable housing. She shares the concerns voiced by Atlantans and how they informed her policy recommendations.

Read more

Source: Heat pumps and insulation ‘will end need for Russian gas faster than new North Sea drilling,’ The Independent