Renewable energy in the European internal energy market (debate)
John Attard-Montalto (S&D), in writing. – Renewable energy is one of the topics which is dominating the environmental agenda. Not only that, it is dominating the agenda for increases in job creation. In some instances it is possible to reconcile the two, in others it is not. As we are all aware, renewables take various forms. The efficiency however is not equal. To give one example: one large wind turbine will produce an amount of energy equivalent to solar panels covering an area equal to the capital city of Malta, Valletta. Then there is the physical impact. A wind turbine does not blend in as easily as solar panels. It sticks out like a sore thumb. The other issue is that the manufacturing of the equipment for renewable energy was seen as a way of creating jobs. This is not always feasible. The production of solar panels in a number of Asian countries has resulted in cheaper and more efficient panels. Several European factories producing solar panels have had to close down. Europe can only excel on high technology products such as wind farms. Evidently we rushed into this vital subject, creating renewable energy and creating jobs, without preparation. Let us learn and not repeat previous mistakes.