The Russian Invasion of Ukraine has brought the case for clean energy and security of supply to the forefront of the political discussion, according to the European Association for Storage of Energy (EASE).

With the EU importing 90% of its gas consumption, 40% of which originating from Russia, the European Commission is seeking diversification of gas supply as a mean to secure energy independence. However, it is essential that the diversification does not come with the risk of an extended “lock-in” to fossil fuels. The focus should be on the roll out of renewable energy coupled with energy storage, to provide the necessary energy shifting capabilities and prevent renewable energy curtailment.

The Commission’s tool box on energy prices of October 2021 was correct to list developing Europe’s energy storage capacity as a means to support the evolving renewables share. As the renewable penetration in Europe grows, alongside the decommissioning of coal plants, flexible backup generation becomes ever more critical. Gas plants have stepped in to provide this flexibility today, maintaining Europe’s reliance on Russian gas imports and fossil […]

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