An Energy Transition with Different Paces: Exploring European Energy Trends Through a GIS Analysis
摘要
The aim of this chapter is to analyse through a spatial analysis the trend of the main energy sources on a European scale. We will first focus on the percentage of energy produced from fossil fuels. Then we will analyse the percentage of electricity produced from wind, photovoltaic, hydroelectric and biofuels. The analysis indicates the European states’ commitment to meeting climate targets. However, the results show that, firstly, the percentage of energy produced from fossil fuels has decreased significantly over the last two decades. Secondly, technological maturity significantly influences production. Indeed, technologies such as wind and photovoltaics have progressed significantly, becoming increasingly competitive with fossil fuels. However, the energy transition process is travelling at different speeds. In fact, the spatial analysis documents significant disparities that are basically related to incentive policies and targeted investments. The analysis also offers important policy recommendations, emphasising the importance of feed-in tariffs and the promotion of decentralisation.