On the second anniversary of REPowerEU, the European Commission has announced new initiatives aimed at expediting the deployment of wind energy across the region.
These latest initiatives include guidance and recommendations on renewable auction design, permitting processes, the identification of renewables acceleration areas, and the introduction of a digital platform for tender planning.
In terms of auction design, the Commission has emphasized the importance of incorporating non-price criteria that are specific to each technology. Furthermore, it has outlined pre-qualification rules that encompass aspects such as cyber and data security, responsible business conduct, and innovation as award standards. Additionally, supply chain resilience criteria are highlighted to bolster Europe's clean tech manufacturing sector.
Giles Dickson, Chief Executive of WindEurope, expressed support for the Commission's approach, stating, “Europe's moving away from wind auctions based solely on price. Good. Non-price award criteria reward those projects that bring the biggest value to consumers and society.”
However, Dickson also noted that the Commission could have gone further by addressing the issue of negative bidding, which can ultimately increase costs for consumers and the supply chain.
In terms of permitting, the Commission has outlined guidelines for Member States to simplify rules and procedures in accordance with the new Renewable Energy Directive. This includes the establishment of one-stop shops and the digitalization of permitting procedures by November 2025.
Furthermore, the Commission has introduced the Renewables Development Platform, a digital tool designed to provide industry stakeholders and governments with comprehensive information on ongoing auctions across Europe.
Overall, these measures represent a concerted effort by the European Commission to streamline processes and facilitate the rapid expansion of wind energy infrastructure throughout the region.
