Solar energy seems to have many advantages: it is cheap, clean and has been the fastest-growing energy source in the last decade. It can be used for electricity, heating, and help to reduce the EU’s dependency on energy imports. However, several challenges remain. Let’s see how the European Union will face these challenges and how the use of solar energy could help the Union in its green transition towards climate neutrality.

Solar energy in the EU - English

Aerial View of the European Parliament in Luxembourg.

Renewable energy - solar panels on factory rooftop

Ouarzazate Solar Power Station

Visit to the Solar Impulse solar plane

Umicore Solar Team entrant in the 2005, 2007 and 2009 editions of the World Solar Challenge, a solar-powered car race through the Australian Outback to promote renewable energy.

This video stockshot provides examples of EU-financed projects in the Climate and Energy sectors. Promoting clean energy and fighting climate change are key priorities for the EU. The featured projects in Greece, the Netherlands, Austria, France, Sweden, Finland and Germany are funded by different EU instruments such as Horizon 2020, the European Regional Development Fund and the European Fund for Strategic Investments, the heart of the Juncker Plan.

Infoclip: InvestEU – climate and energy projects

This Infoclip illustrates private electricity production by the means of solar panels installed on the roof, the family produces more than it consumes and has therefore a financial benefit. The clip shows several solar panel installations in the region near Leuven, Belgium.

Infoclip: Renewable energy - Private producers

During the EP plenary session (15-18 January 2018) in Strasbourg, MEPs debate on energy efficiency, renewables and the governance of the Energy Union. José BLANCO LÓPEZ (S&D, ES), Claude TURMES (Greens/EFA, LU), Michèle RIVASI (Greens/EFA, FR), and Miroslav POCHE (S&D, CS), rapporteurs, express themselves in the Chamber. Illustrative footage: photovoltaic energy, wind energy and methane biogas energy.

Clean energy: extracts from the joint debate and illustrative footage

This infoclip illustrates the effort sharing regulation and shows the gas emissions in different sectors such as buildings, agriculture, waste management, small industry and transport.

Infoclip: Effort sharing regulation - gas emission reductions

The construction of the community centre in Villers-le-Bouillet, Belgium results a modern house which fits all the standards of a passive-house. The building is built with natural materials, wood and reed to guarantee a better insulation than a usual house. Passive houses benefits are among others some environmental, economical and social benefits. Compared to traditional buildings, passive houses are optimal solution in terms of life cycle costs. Since the energy demand of a passive house is extremely low, it is also the most beneficial solution for the environment. No matter the climate or geographical region, passive houses stay at a comfortable temperature year round with minimal energy inputs. In addition, passive houses have so small heat losses that no conventional heating system is needed so it's not obligatory to invest in a central heating or stoves and in this way, the saved money can be invested in a better heat insulation.

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