The Overview and Conclusions of the 27 th “Energy & Development” conference which was organised by the Institute on November 14- 15, 2023 in Athens have now been completed and are available through the conference microsite (here). This document provides a comprehensive review of IENE’s annual conference while it summarises the key points raised by speakers and moderators. The Overview and Conclusions of the 27 th “Energy & Development” conference which was organised by the Institute on November 14- 15, 2023 in Athens have now been completed and are available through the conference microsite (here). This document provides a comprehensive review of IENE’s annual conference while it summarises the key points raised by speakers and moderators. The conclusions drawn from the proceedings of the conference provide a useful guide to the challenges and prospects of the energy sector and are relevant not only for Greece and SE Europe but more generally for Europe.
As it is stated in the conclusions part of this latest IENE document, “The energy sector is undergoing radical changes, and the transition to a new energy environment is already being shaped in Europe and Greece as a result of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and, more recently, the Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East. The need for energy fortification in the EU, and particularly in Greece, becomes increasingly apparent amid geopolitical uncertainties. This transition involves moving towards less polluting and smarter energy, with the widespread use of clean technologies and the simultaneous integration of digital technology. New ideas and innovative technologies are pivotal drivers, and digital technology is permeating every activity and daily life. Energy is becoming a complex sector characterized by high investments and critical economic, environmental, social, and geopolitical parameters, innovation, research, market reforms, all requiring an adaptable and appropriate regulatory framework.”
“Greece, encompassing its mainland, islands, and surrounding seas, presents significant energy challenges that require careful consideration and technical expertise. Addressing these challenges necessitates the implementation of suitable policies and well-planned development strategies aimed at maximizing social and economic benefits. The nation's pronounced reliance on energy imports, including hydrocarbons and electricity, has notable adverse effects on both the economy and energy security. Therefore, the primary objectives of strategic planning should focus on reducing energy dependence and promoting the progress of a competitive energy sector, all while considering environmental considerations.”
“Energy security, the improvement of energy efficiency, the wide utilization of RES and the operation of a competitive market emerge as key policy axes. A major transformation is taking place in the electricity sector with the entry of RES. Rapidly evolving technologies in RES are achieving extremely low prices, with a highly dispersed generation, which are transforming the grid and the market and are force electricity companies to change their business models. The electricity grid is also being transformed with innovative technologies in order to integrate the increasing penetration of RES with high efficiency, reliability and with new services to consumers, while the market is reforming and looking for the tools to meet the new challenges for its operation.”
“Electricity is evolving as a main energy carrier with expanding applications replacing fossil fuels, as it spreads everywhere, such as transportation, heating/cooling, etc., also being a driver of growth. Electric cars and hydrogen production for fuel cells in buses and trucks that are rapidly entering the market will form an extension of the electricity grid.”
