A systemic approach to the energy system in Europe: Expert workshop report

The transition of the energy system is a key challenge and priority for the EU. It should be seen in the context of the European Green Deal which follows the principle of ‘green and clean’. Most countries, including the US, Russia, Japan and China have joined the EU in the ambition of reaching net zero emissions by the middle of the century or soon after. But emissions are not the only issue. All the negative externalities of the energy system need to be considered, and also the social imbalances associated with the large number of people who are excluded and unable to afford their energy supply. Much work is needed to overcome the barriers and realise the opportunities presented by the energy transition and this report will provide a valuable contribution to that challenge. This report is being produced as part of a project being carried out by the European Commission’s Scientific Advice Mechanism on a systemic approach to the energy transition in Europe. The mechanism is composed of the Group of Chief Scientific Advisors, supported by the Science Policy, Advice and Ethics unit of DG RTD and by SAPEA. This report is an integral part of the project. It is a summary of a SAPEA expert workshop which provided a critique of the draft SAPEA Evidence Review Report. Attendees included representatives from the wider expert community in the field of energy, including from industry, NGOs, universities and academies