Status and prospects of european renewable-based energy systems facilitated by smart grid technologies

Abstract

Renewable energy plays an important role in the future energy framework of the European Union. The European Union will reach a 20% share of renewable energy in total energy consumption and increase energy efficiency by 20% by 2020. Smart grids will be the backbone for facilitating the integration of renewable energy resources into future energy systems. The plans and status of renewable energy resources development and energy policy in Europe are introduced in this chapter. The development of smart grid technologies for facilitating the renewable-based energy systems in the European Union is also discussed. The role of Denmark, one of the leading countries for developing smart grid technologies and using renewable energy resources, has been emphasized in this chapter.