Discussing Renewable Energy policy in Greece

Abstract

Since Renewable Energy Sources (RES) have been seen as a sustainable solution to the environmental problems and many countries have formed National Action Plans (NAP) targeting increased RES contribution to primary energy demands, they have experienced strong growth. However, researchers consider restrictions on siting as a barrier of RES development. The present study deals with the institutional framework for Industrial RES installations, applied in Greece. More specifically, the question is whether it boosts the environmental protection and serves social interests or it supports RES as financial investments, looking for profit maximization, under the existing market rules. Study focuses on wind power, as its' participation in the electricity production will be more than 50% until 2020, according to NAP. To enlight on the questions raised, the case study of an already environmentally approved project, a wind farm at "Vermio" mount, is going to be analysed. The very first finding is that the existing legislation, trying to be harmonised with the European directives, doesn't take into account the country-specific needs. Additionally, during the last years of economic crisis, for reasons of "overriding public interest" the existing legal protection frame for vulnerable areas collapses, while installation areas and local communities are slightly benefited.