EV charging infrastructure in Europe

Which must come first, more electric vehicles or more infrastructure to charge electric vehicles? It’s a complicated discussion at best. Europe needs a common vision for building a competitive market for EV charging services, starting with Member States defining an “essential network.” Decision-makers have the opportunity to ensure that EV users have ample, convenient access to smart charging infrastructure. Dr. Julia Hildermeier outlines a clear path for policymakers and planners.

Getting off gas: Future risks for energy-poor households

The European Green Deal, the European Commission’s forthcoming gas package and other route maps to decarbonisation offer new opportunities to reduce Europe’s dependence on natural gas. At the same time, clean energy programmes and incentives encourage households to switch to electric or district heating to keep their homes warm. Programmes to support energy-poor households, however, often rely on gas to reduce fuel costs. Louise Sunderland explains the serious implications of this shortsighted solution.

Getting Spain’s power system transformation right

Spain has set some of the most ambitious renewable energy targets in Europe, aiming for a 74% share by 2030. To meet reliability targets as it decarbonises, Spain will need more flexibility in its power system. Christos Kolokathis recommends power market reforms to bolster flexibility, such as improved design of the wholesale energy and balancing market, further integration of the Spanish market into the continental market, and an enhanced role for demand response.

FURTHER NOTES

The coronavirus pandemic is influencing every aspect of the global economy, and electric utilities are seeing significant effects. Jim Lazar details the factors affecting utility costs and sales in the United States and the considerations regulators should keep in mind when addressing COVID-19 impacts.

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Source: Heat pumps, not hydrogen, key to decarbonise UK heating, Power Technology