Renewable Energy Law and Policy in the European Union

The EU has embarked upon a fundamental change in direction of its energy policy, with the agreement by the European Council of the 20-20-20 targets. The new legislative framework presently being finalised to put this into practice will have profound effects on all those active in the energy industry. Achieving a 20% share of renewables in the EU's energy mix will require massive investments; an increase by roughly 10x the level of wind and solar energy presently installed in Europe today in a period of just 12 years. This creates both huge opportunities and challenges for EU business. A full understanding of support schemes, obligations, and planning requirements is vital for industry and its advisors. This volume provides a complete working guide to the new EU legislation. Highlights: * The economic, environmental, and energy security rationale underpinning the new proposals. * National renewable targets, levels and enforcement mechanisms. * The trading of renewable energy credits and guarantees of origin. * Biofuels: obligations, sustainability, the Fuel Quality Directive. * The EU's electricity grid: how will it need to evolve to incorporate the new renewable electricity.