Technical Assistance for renewable energies and energy efficiency

projekt beendet

ContextGreece has a huge untapped potential for renewable energies and energy efficiency. Within the context of the European energy and climate targets, the country has set itself ambitious goals for unlocking this potential by 2020. However, the current framework for developing renewables and energy efficiency is not conducive to meeting these goals and mobilising the corresponding investments.Since 2011, the European Commission has been supporting reforms in Greece across a variety of sectors. EU member states are providing the Greek Government with technical expertise coordinated through the Structural Reform Support Service (SRSS). Within the context of a strategic partnership, the German Federal Government supports Greece with promoting renewable energies and energy efficiency.ObjectiveThe framework for the further development of renewable energies and energy efficiency in Greece as well as for achieving the national targets by 2020 is improved.ApproachGreece is seeking to cover 40 per cent of its power consumption using renewables by 2020. The energy intensity of the Greek economy is also to be further reduced by then. Comprehensive reforms are needed in order to achieve these goals.On behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi), GIZ is advising the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy (YPEN) on preparing and implementing the required reforms.The project Technical Assistance for Renewable Energies and Energy Efficiency in Greece focuses on supporting reforms that are crucial to the further development of renewable energies and energy efficiency. GIZ is working closely in this regard with the Greek Center for Renewable Energy Sources and Saving (CRES) as well as with other Greek and international energy experts. The European Commission is providing cofinancing for the project.The project is advising the Greek Government on adapting its support scheme for the production of electricity from renewables, drawing on the experience of other EU member states and taking new binding regulations from the European Commission into account. In addition, the project is supporting the continued market and system integration of renewable energies.The project is encouraging the local use of renewables as well as the development of innovative and competitive pilot projects. It is advising the Greek partners on improving licensing procedures and on financing renewable energies.With regard to energy efficiency, the project is assisting with the development of appropriate support and financing instruments to mobilise investments in energy efficiency in different sectors. It is promoting higher energy efficiency in public buildings and supporting further development of the national market for energy services.ImpactThe continuous development of renewable energies and energy efficiency in Greece can foster investments and generate new and future-oriented jobs. The costs for Greek energy users will be reduced, making the economy more competitive. Investments in renewable energies and energy efficiency reduce the country’s heavy dependence on energy imports, thereby increasing its energy security. The reduced use of fossil fuels contributes to environmental protection and climate change mitigation.

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