Energy autonomy is a one-way road for Europe, says panel

Energy autonomy is a one-way for Europe, a panel of experts concluded at the 14th Limassol Economic Forum.

The discussion, entitled “Energy transition in Europe: Is Net Zero achievable?”, analysed the policies, agenda, road map and challenges in achieving the Net Zero target.

The global energy landscape is rapidly evolving, and Europe is at the forefront of this transformation. The EU is committed to policies that will contribute to the European Green Deal ambition of achieving carbon-neutrality by 2050. They are also aimed at boosting the internal energy market, making energy in Europe more secure, more sustainable, and more affordable.

Moderated by Natasa Pilides, Former Minister for Energy, Commerce, and Industry, the panel consisted of Dr Yolanda Garcia Mezquita, Head of the Unit TF 2, Directorate-General for Energy of the European Commission; Dr Alex Papalexopoulos, Founder and CEO of ECCO International, Inc, CEO and Chairman of the Board of ZOME Energy Networks, Inc, USA; Irina Kustova, Research Fellow, CEPS, Belgium; and Gianpaolo Giuseppe Giuliani, Chief Commercial Officer, Sunlight Group Energy Storage Systems.

Kustova explained that the targets involve all member states, though each strategy will be adjusted accordingly. She conceded that the regulating the strategies is a challenge that is often discussed during academic debates.

Dr Papalexopoulos said the energy model must be the same for all successive markets and that emphasis should be attached to better incorporating PPAs, FMs and CfDs in spot markets.

Yolanda Garcia Mezquita said that energy efficiency is a priority for Europe, especially after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Gianpaolo Giuseppe Giuliani stressed the need for sufficient energy storage facilities. He also said incentives were needed to better implement the European targets.

The biggest current affairs conference in Cyprus

The Limassol Economic Forum is the biggest current affairs conference in Cyprus where business leaders, government officials, diplomats and academics discuss global issues on the economy, international relations, energy, investing, technology and entrepreneurship.

It is addressed to business leaders and decision makers such Board Members, CEOs, Managing Directors, and other senior management executives from all the major corporations in Cyprus and abroad. The Forum also as a rule welcomes politicians, diplomats, other government officials, but also entrepreneurs, academics, and other international experts on political and economic issues.

The 14th Limassol Economic Forum is taking place at City of Dreams Mediterranean, Limassol. It has been organised by IMH and INBusiness Magazine, with the support of EKO, the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, and Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry. CBN, GOLD Magazine, and ALPHA Cyprus are communication sponsors.