Knowledge Library
Plain-English briefs, in-depth reports, and case studies on European clean energy markets, policy, and technology.
Understanding EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED III)
Plain-English breakdown of the revised Renewable Energy Directive and its implications for project developers
The EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) sets binding targets for renewable energy across member states. Key updates include accelerated permitting timelines (maximum 12 months for solar, 24 months for wind in designated areas), mandatory go-to areas for renewables, and strengthened sustainability criteria. For developers, this means streamlined processes in designated zones, but stricter environmental safeguards. Member states must transpose RED III by mid-2024, with implementation timelines varying by country. Practical impact: Projects in designated renewable acceleration areas benefit from presumed public interest and simplified environmental assessments.
Grid Connection Queue Management Across Europe
Comparative analysis of how different countries handle grid connection applications and queue priorities
Grid connection queues vary significantly across Europe. Germany employs a first-come-first-served model with conditional milestones, while Spain recently reformed its system to prioritize projects with advanced development status. France uses a mixed approach with regional capacity allocation. Key insight: Storage projects are increasingly receiving priority treatment due to grid stabilization benefits. Best practice for developers: secure grid capacity early, maintain milestone compliance, and consider hybrid projects (solar + storage) for preferential treatment. Typical queue times range from 12 months (France, distribution level) to 36+ months (Germany, transmission level).
Green Hydrogen Production Costs: 2024 Benchmark
Current levelized cost breakdown for electrolytic hydrogen production in Europe
As of 2024, green hydrogen production costs in Europe range from €4-7/kg depending on electricity prices, electrolyzer efficiency, and utilization rates. Key cost drivers: renewable electricity (50-60% of LCOH), electrolyzer CAPEX (25-30%), and O&M (10-15%). Costs are falling rapidly—electrolyzer prices dropped 40% since 2020. Pathways to competitiveness: securing low-cost PPAs (target <€30/MWh), achieving high capacity factors (>4,000 hours/year), and accessing grant support (IPCEI, H2Global). Projects with co-located renewables and merchant offtake are reaching €3.5-4.5/kg in Iberia and Northern Europe. Policy support remains critical—most projects rely on CAPEX grants or price guarantees to close the gap with grey hydrogen (€1.5-2.5/kg).