To avoid repeating past mistakes of energy dependence, Europe needs to carefully consider its reliance on Chinese technology for building wind and solar infrastructure, a leading EU energy minister has cautioned.
Belgium’s Tinne Van der Straeten, speaking in Brussels, emphasized that the European Union starkly realized the perilous consequences of relying on a single nation for energy after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
“We must learn from this experience and avoid repeating it. If control over all our renewable technologies resides with China, including their production and delivery, it will significantly undermine our energy security,” she stated.
However, Van der Straeten clarified that this doesn’t necessarily mean every component of solar panels or wind turbines needs to be European-made. The EU should strive to avoid fully outsourcing the core technological development of renewable energy to China.
“Allowing China to control the technology behind wind turbines, particularly those that interface with energy grids, poses a serious threat. Imagine the potential for disruption – a single action could effectively shut down entire energy systems. Such vulnerability is simply unacceptable,” she emphasized.
Van der Straeten, a Green Party minister in Belgium’s caretaker government, made these remarks during the launch of the second edition of “Supergrid – Super Solution.” Co-authored by The Irish Times environment and science editor Kevin O’Sullivan and the late Eddie O’Connor, the book explores the concept of a pan-European grid for renewable energy.
O’Connor, a champion of the supergrid idea and a prominent figure in renewable energy development, was remembered by O’Sullivan at the event. He noted that while some nations like France, Spain, and Denmark are making commendable strides in renewable energy adoption, others are lagging behind, creating the risk of a stratified energy landscape in Europe.
Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Andrews, participating in a panel discussion, highlighted a shift in sentiment within the European Parliament regarding climate reforms. Five years ago, there was significant enthusiasm and ambition surrounding Ursula von der Leyen’s ambitious green deal. Now, he observed, there is greater opposition, with many MEPs more focused on preventing further setbacks to the green deal than on advancing its goals.
Van der Straeten underscored the current turbulent times in global energy markets, deeming it a crucial juncture in history. Existing national grids are under tremendous strain, she said, emphasizing the importance of a European supergrid as the most viable solution to achieve a carbon-neutral and energy-independent Europe.
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Ption, a cohesive strategy across the EU is crucial to enhance energy security and sustainability.
Van der Straeten’s comments underscore a pivotal issue faced by European nations as they transition towards greener energy solutions. The war in Ukraine has starkly illuminated the risks associated with over-reliance on external energy sources, prompting a reevaluation of energy strategy within the EU.
The minister argues for a balanced approach where the EU harnesses global capabilities while maintaining strategic control over its critical energy technologies. Ensuring that key technologies are developed within Europe, rather than entirely depending on imports, is paramount for bolstering energy independence and security.
proactive measures must be taken to prevent analogous vulnerabilities from occurring in the renewable sector as Europe seeks to diversify its energy mix and safeguard its infrastructure from potential disruptions.