With the new EU commitments to reduce greenhouse gases, renewable energy is certain to grow over the next few years. Although new markets of growth such as India and China are emerging, Europe will continue to witness the wind power expansion that started a few years ago. Despite its growth prospects, with its numerous individual wind power markets operating at different stages of maturity and governed by different regulatory frameworks, Europe represents a challenging environment for all the incumbent players.

Electrabel has been making several announcements about renewable energy achievements and projects in Europe. Bruno Defrasnes, Sustainable Development Manager at Electrabel, points out that these small streams are not isolated. Together they enable the company to reach its goal of 6300 MW of renewable capacity by 2009, equal to 18 per cent of all its facilities, and to generate green electricity equivalent to the consumption of seven million households.

Iberdrola is a century-old company who has been in the energy business since 1901. In line with its sustainable energy model and an environmental strategy, the company has a long tradition of hydroelectric power generation, reaching today its installed capacity of almost 10,000 MW. Iberdrola’s commitment to clean energy is one of the mainstays of its business model for the 21st century. The company’s aim is for its environmental stance to be recognised as a distinguishing feature.