We are apparently facing a power crisis. Putin throttles gas supplies to Germany and puts pressure on the energy market in Europe. Through connections to Sweden and our cables to Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and Great Britain, we are connected to this market.
It is easy to have hindsight, but we allowed a dictator to get into a position where he can control electricity (lighting, heating and cooking…) throughout Europe. And then the grain supplies of millions of people by blocking ports in the Black Sea.
People who are interested in solar energy have received new arguments completely free of charge: Now the solar panels are also about safety. And with sky-high electricity prices, the investment pays off faster than ever.
While the war raged and the forest fires raged, we lay strewn on the South’s sunbeds this summer. With the umbrella drink in one hand and the sunscreen in the other – was anyone wondering why on earth they don’t build solar cells for the hard life here in the South?
It hasn’t happened yet, but something is on the horizon. Take Portugal, for example. Since 2020, the country has managed to double solar power production to today’s two gigawatts. Not all of the world yet, but 220 solar projects are now in motion.
In the latest report, an aggressive plan is laid out for the day: Renewable energy production is to be doubled by 2030. Most of it is to come from the sun. This means that the capacity must be increased tenfold. In addition, wind production is to be doubled.
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin attends a parade marking Navy Day in Saint Petersburg, Russia July 31, 2022. REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov
sea view
With literally an ocean to take off, there should be some sea breeze too. As is well known, both Norway and Portugal have the Atlantic Ocean as their nearest neighbour.
Portugal’s report came before the Russian invasion. Now it’s about getting the ass in gear, as they say. Solar cells are quick to build – offshore wind is slow in comparison. The EU has already agreed to reduce gas use by 15 percent from August to March. From a political point of view, it is now clear that we must move away from oil and gas. As fast as possible. For now it is also about safety. And economy. Climate was not enough.
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