EU Accelerates Renewable Project Permits

The EU is currently witnessing increased demand for home energy efficiency projects and is also expediting permits on renewable energy projects. These measures have accelerated as a result of the recent resolve to cut reliance on Russian fuels, and prove to be very promising for the EUs climate goals.  

Traditionally, renewable energy projects face longer delays owing to authorizations, permits and local opposition. In Greece, for instance, a wind energy project typically takes about 8 years to come online, according to the Hellenic Wind Energy Association.

New rules formulated by the European Commission state that permit grants for new renewable energy projects do not exceed one year. Smaller projects with lower capacities of about 150kW would benefit from a faster six month permitting process. Next week, Brussels is set to unveil a package of measures to bolster renewable energy projects and end Russian reliance. 

In the UK, businesses and homeowners are increasingly resorting to energy efficiency to counter rising heating costs. This includes improved insulation for walls, lofts, ceilings, as well as employing heat pumps, renewable energy and other energy saving devices.

Travis Perkins chief executive Nick Roberts said: “The increased demand for projects that improve the energy efficiency of the UK’s housing stock is encouraging. With one of the oldest housing stocks in Europe, the UK’s ambition of achieving net-zero carbon by 2050 depends on remedial activity, which will lower heating bills today and decarbonize our homes for the future.”

Uncertainties in the economy, particularly linked to the war in Ukraine, and the energy crisis have influenced businesses and homeowners alike, with many resorting to cleaner, sustainable approaches and energy efficiency measures. FORCE can be instrumental to improve the overall energy efficiency of a building by saving over 10-15% of power. FORCE when coupled with other efficiency measures like building design, insulation and window treatments can result in phenomenal energy savings.