Energy

Islands are sometimes not only dependent on fossil fuel for all their energy needs but also dependent on specific restricted shipping methods to obtain it. In the backdrop where Europe has introduced energy targets for 2020, 2030 and 2050 so as to become more sustainable and curb the use of fossil fuel in meeting our energy needs; this creates further demand on Islands.

Hence it is even more important that islands become more sustainable in their energy use.

The existing success stories demonstrate that islands have the potential to become self-sustainable in terms of their energy requirements. Samso, in the centre of Denmark, has been Denmark’s "Renewable Energy Island" since 1997. Using 11 land-based wind turbines, it was able to become completely self-sufficient in renewable energy within 10 years. In 2014, El Hierro also became completely self-sufficient in renewable energy using wind turbines and hydroelectric power.

Islands within Europe could draw great benefits from renewables. As well as reducing their carbon footprint, the sector is a source of growth and employment not only within the industry itself but also beyond it.