The debate was moderated by international journalist and broadcaster Steven Sackur and featured prominent figures from across the European power industry. In an open and thought-provoking debate the panel voiced their opinions on the wisdom of current policies in integrating renewables into the current system, ensuring ageing plant and infrastructure is replaced, and utilities remain solvent.
The international panel comprised: Peter Traupmann, Managing Director & Energy Expert, Austrian Energy Agency, Austria; Andreo Aparo, Senior Advisor for R&D to the Chief Executive Officer, Ansaldo Energia Spa, Italy; Susanna Zapreva, Chief Executive Officer, Wien Energie, Austria; Wolfgang Anzengruber, Chief Executive Officer, Verbund AG, Austria; Fabien Roques, Senior Director, IHS CERA, European Power and Carbon, France; and Dr Michael Fübi, Chief Executive Officer, RWE Technology, Germany.
The European Commission is currently pursuing the twin goals of a free power market across the EU and eliminating carbon emissions from the sector, which also calls for a significant switch to renewable energy. The panel assessed the compatibility of these goals with the policies of individual member states, as well as the challenges of ensuring ongoing investment in order for Europe to remain competitive globally. Known for his provocative interview style, Sackur probed the panel with some tough questions around the future of investment in the sector given the current climate of uncertainty.
While uncertainty in the market is nothing new, the panel shared concerns that change was being forced to quickly on a system unprepared to deal with it. Capacity, subsidies and pricing were identified as critical issues that need to be addressed urgently to ensure further investment and a more stable future for the sector in Europe. The lack of political and strategic leadership was also lamented, with panellists calling for brave decisions to be taken around future policies and pricing. The plenary debate was broadcast via the internet and drew participation from 87 countries including Argentina, Bulgaria, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, India and Japan, ensuring the debate had a truly global perspective.
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