Overview
European cities are advancing at rapid pace in the field of renewable energies and urban electric mobility. These are innovative and smart technologies that can contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy efficiency. Their intelligent integration into energy and mobility system is of high priority in our urban ecosystem.
European context
On 23 October 2014, the European Council agreed on the “2030 climate and energy framework” containing the new EU-wide targets and policy objectives for the period between 2020 and 2030.The framework proposes the following targets for 2030:
- 40% greenhouse gas reduction relative to 1990 levels
- at least 27% of EU energy consumption from renewables
- 27% improvement in energy efficiency
With these objectives in mind, a major trend becomes even more necessary: the decarbonisation of the energy and mobility sector.
Urban context
Cities are the main energy consumers, but also offer the greatest opportunities for change. Two of the most important technologies that are gaining momentum in European cities are electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energies. Both technologies offer great potential for climate change mitigation but do come with limitations. Solar energy production peaks at noon, when demand is low. EVs are mainly charged after working hours, precisely at the period of maximum demand, when the solar energy generation is much lower. This inconsistency leads to inefficient use of urban renewable energies, and a large dependence on the national energy mix, which is more CO2 intensive.
The EV Energy project aimed to analyse, initiate and implement policies favouring sustainable energy and electric mobility systems in urban areas. It works with experienced cities and regions, transferring the most appropriate policies and good practices.
The project focused on three thematic areas:
- Renewable energies
- Electric mobility
- Infrastructures (Smart grids, ICT, etc.)
EV Energy acted in a proactive way as a catalyst for the transition from internal combustion to renewable energy fuelled electric vehicles. For this purpose, this project collaborated with cities that have implemented V2G scheme and studied what policies and circumstances are the most appropriate for this transition. EV Energy inventorised, analysed and transfered adequate policy measures by cities, regions and member states. Secondly regional policies were addressed to implement the best solutions.
Funding
Results
In terms of activities, the project has organised a total of 36 policy learning events. It has also identified 25 good practices, produced 5 action plans and led to the increased capacity of 196 people.