CESEC Aims to Unlock South East Europe's Vast Renewable Energy Potential
The Central and South-Eastern European Connectivity (CESEC) group, spanning 17 nations, is committed to advancing regional energy infrastructure and market integration. With vast, diverse, and cost-competitive renewable energy potential, South East Europe could play a pivotal role in Europe's clean energy transition.
South East Europe boasts a current renewable energy capacity of 127GW, with an estimated 650GW of wind and solar potential by 2030. Countries like Bulgaria and Romania have already met their 2020 renewables targets, and many have significant hydro potential. However, the region's enormous renewable energy potential remains largely untapped due to resource limitations, inadequate infrastructure, economic hurdles, and a shortage of skilled workers in the sector.
CESEC's work focuses on clean local energy sources, energy efficiency, and renewables. The group aims to bolster economic growth, strengthen energy security, and create well-paying jobs, particularly in rural regions like Greece. Despite these efforts, political risks, policy following, and strategic oversight have hindered the region's renewable energy progress.
South East Europe's vast renewable energy potential makes it a promising clean energy pillar for Europe. To fully utilise this potential and meet Paris climate targets, Europe should prioritise addressing the region's infrastructure gaps, economic challenges, and workforce development. Ambitious decarbonisation could bring significant benefits to the region, including bolstered economic growth and higher quality jobs.
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