Renewable energy lobby powers on
Renewable energy technologies were back on the European Parliamentary agenda again this month, with the Committee for Industry, External Trade, Research and Energy welcoming the Council's common position on the Altener II renewable energy programme. The programme aims to increase the share of total energy taken up by renewable energies in Europe from 6% to 12%. Biomass, solar energy, hydro-electrical and wind power received particular attention, while MEPs stressed the importance of EU-funding of renewables to ensure the programme's success. Commission Vice-President, Loyola De Palacio, welcomed Parliament's support and said she was prepared to accept most of its amendments to the programme, although she questioned the usefulness of attempting to develop a new energy charter at this point in time in view of previous failed attempts in the past.