The energy transition has reached a turning point. The year 2030 is getting closer and closer and the need to leave the fossil age is becoming ever stronger. The EU has recognized this and is tightening the screws, a recent example being the new EU directive for renewable energies, or RED III for short, the consequences of which are not yet recognized at the national level.

The EU Commission’s “Fit for 55” Package in July 2023 already called for an acceleration in the reduction of greenhouse gases. As an example, Austria must reduce CO2 emissions by 48% by 2030 (compared to 2005). RED III, which came into force on November 20, 2023, calls for a further increase in the share of renewable energy in the energy mix, in Austria from the current 34% to 60% by 2030 – and reducing emissions by 60% instead of 48%. For space heating and hot water, the share of renewable energy should increase from 35% to 67 %. This must be incorporated into national law within 18 months.

Austrian laws are miles away from meeting these requirements. This is probably the case in all EU countries. In meeting the goals, solar heat can play a much stronger role than before – no, it MUST play a much stronger role, because we have to use the whole range of renewables in order to completely replace fossil energies. It will require all technologies and solar thermal energy has so far been traded far below its potential. The “Fit for 55” package also includes a binding increase in renewable heat of around +1% points per year on average for all countries by 2030. We have calculated that for Austria, we could cover half of the increase with solar thermal energy if we would start a large solar offensive.

The EU’s push will give solar thermal energy a boost in the years to come. The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, requiring all buildings to become zero-emission buildings until 2050, and the demand for solar mandates so that no more buildings are built without solar energy will help by that. Our National Associations will have a key role in ensuring the implementation, by convincing national and local policymakers, regions, and cities. Solar producers and project developers are prepared to triple their production lines and multiply the number of projects in order to enable the necessary market upturn.

Even if we celebrate Christmas, the market upturn is not a wish for the Christ child, it could become reality if we all pull together. Let’s get to it, the sun is waiting!

Roger Hackstock,

Board Member of Solar Heat Europe