At a joint dinner with the pan-European distribution network association
Geode, the ENA urged the European Commission to build on the positive
developments in energy policy impacting European networks.
Tony Glover, director of policy at the ENA, said: “There have been
very positive developments in EU energy policy but it is critical not to
restrict the innovation of the networks and ensure rigorous
cost/benefit analysis is carried out for any new energy efficiency
requirements.”
Glover said Europe should not ignore the role of gas, as a “sensible
fuel mix is important” and it can play an important role in delivering
affordable low carbon energy.
Rheinhard Brehmer, president of Geode, said: “There is a critical
role for the distribution networks across Europe. There will be
significant growth in small-scale renewable generation and the
investment and innovation in smart grid technology will be of direct
benefits to consumers.
“The Commission has rightly identified smart grids as a crucial
component of a fully functioning energy market and we are keen to see
the Energy Technologies Communication later this year supporting
continued innovation to achieve them.”