Greece’s revised National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) is leading to an imbalanced renewable energy mix, according to the Hellenic Wind Energy Association (HWEA or ELETAEN). The NECP outlines goals of 13.5 GW of solar installations by 2030, alongside 8.9 GW of onshore wind and an additional 1.9 GW of offshore wind. This strategy aims for renewable energy to make up 75.9% of total power production. However, HWEA argues that the optimal mix should prioritize 60% wind energy and 40% solar power. Adjusting this imbalance in the final NECP could result in fewer curtailments, increased green electricity exports, and lower energy costs for consumers.
HWEA points out the potential impact of wind power on electricity imports. Under the current NECP, the added cost of importing electricity is projected to be €6 per MWh by 2025, accounting for 4.1% of total consumer costs. This is expected to decrease to €3 per MWh (2.2%) by 2030. However, HWEA believes that with greater support for wind energy, these costs could be reduced even further. The association is advocating for a licensing process that reflects a 60-40 mix in favor of wind, priority curtailments for projects exceeding national goals, and enhanced public promotion of wind energy.
HWEA has also raised concerns about widespread misconceptions and misinformation regarding wind energy in Greece. Chairman Panagiotis Ladakakos noted, “Often, monstrous lies and conspiracy theories circulate, dominating the internet. While only a small segment of society may believe them, they foster a toxic climate that delays new projects.” Public opposition to wind farm initiatives has long been a challenge in Greece, but recent years have seen a surge in fake news and reluctance from local licensing authorities to approve new investments. Ladakakos emphasized, “If priority is not given to the most promising wind farm projects, energy costs will not decrease as significantly as they could.”
