When COP20 was starting, the International Energy Agency (IEA) was also realising its 2014 review of EU energy policies. The organisation clearly struggled to express a coherent viewpoint in the review. Their historical interest in ensuring energy supply from fossils and nuclear is evident, but at the same time it correctly identifies many elements in support of an EU clean energy transformation.
The IEA has a reputation for advocating stronger energy efficiency policies, so it’s no surprise that this latest report pleads strongly for a higher energy efficiency target when examining the EU’s emerging 2030 framework. It is less straight-forward about the potential of renewables: the review identifies the likely implementation problems caused by eliminating nationally binding targets. But it is light on solutions, preferring to put the emphasis on removing ‘market distorting’ subsidies.
As befits its historical role, the IEA claims that the EU needs the development of unconventional fossil energy; use of coal, and access to fossil imports to ensure its energy security. This seems a reflexive impulse rather than being grounded in assessment of the implications for our limited carbon budget; stranded assets as the EU decarbonises, or sustaining the political power of the fossil lobby.
The IEA’s narrow scope of analysis overlooks that the renewables revolution is happening at technical, market and social level. High levels of community and individual empowerment are beginning to seriously challenge ageing business models and putting politically influential oligopolies on notice. And Europe is one of the main laboratories for change globally. Success there can spur technology, policy and market developments that are of importance to developed and developing countries alike, creating power and empowerment for everyone from the most remote villages to mega-cities.
The challenge of overcoming decades – no, centuries – of investment in fossil fuels while combatting the climate crisis should not be understated. Creating a well-functioning energy system that is transparent, competitive and cost-effective is a laudable goal, but won’t come without making some clear choices. This endeavour would benefit a lot from the IEA letting go some of its golden calves.