SolarPower Europe Calls for Accelerated Renewable Transition Following EU State of the Union Address

In response to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s annual ‘State of the European Union’ address today, SolarPower Europe welcomed the EU’s focus on energy security and clean energy solutions, while urging a broader approach to reducing fossil fuel dependency.

During her speech to the European Parliament, President von der Leyen emphasized the need for Europe to enhance energy security by advancing energy technologies, strengthening grid infrastructure, and bringing down prices through “clean homegrown energy.” She highlighted initiatives such as the Battery Booster Package aimed at supporting these objectives.

Dries Acke, Deputy CEO of SolarPower Europe, expressed strong support for the Commission’s direction but noted that Europe’s energy security challenges extend beyond dependence on Russian fossil fuels.

“We agree with President von der Leyen: the EU must regain geopolitical clout. Europe’s fossil fuel dependency is undermining the continent’s strength,” Acke said. “Good news: we know exactly how to tackle our dependency — with solar, battery storage, and rapid, flexible electrification.”

Acke added that Europe’s reliance on fossil fuel imports from all regions threatens its economic and strategic stability. “Homegrown renewable generation with a battery baseload is the fastest and most cost-effective pathway to meet Europe’s security, competitiveness, and climate needs,” he stated. “The renewable energy transition has become a geostrategic imperative for the EU.”

SolarPower Europe’s statement underscores the organization’s call for accelerated investment in solar and storage technologies as essential components in safeguarding Europe’s energy future.