Energy technologies of the future in the focus of Presidency Conference in Luxembourg

Today the European Commission and the Luxembourg Presidency are starting a two day conference to discuss proposals for EU support for innovative low-carbon energy technologies. The discussion will be centred on the Commission’s Strategic Energy Technology (SET) Plan and how it will contribute to the transformation of the European energy system and building of the Energy Unionwhich is one of the priorities of this Commission. Speaking at the opening event, Carlos Moedas, EU Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation said: “Innovation and research are essential in bringing about a fundamental transformation of the energy systems in Europe. That is why we are doubling the budget for energy research in Horizon 2020 to give a new and meaningful impetus for the innovation and research in energy technology agenda and develop more innovative and cost-effective solutions to build the Energy Union.” Miguel Arias Cañete, EU Commissioner for Climate Action and Energy, said: “Becoming the global leader in renewable energy, facilitating consumer participation and accelerating the progress to a smart energy system are at the very heart of our Energy Union strategy. The SET-plan is a major step towards achieving these research and innovation goals.” The conference will be web-streamed or can followed via twitter using #SetPlan15. The event will be followed by the Informal Council of EU Energy Ministers, placing research and innovation in energy at the heart of Luxembourg’s Council Presidency. On innovation in the field of energy read President Juncker’s State of the Union speech.