What is EREF?
Ever since its foundation twenty-five years ago, EREF has been the go-to information hub on renewable energy policies and developments bridging the gap between EU and national levels. It’s all about sharing insights on the feasibility and advantages of a European energy system powered solely by renewables. Curious about their vision? EREF’s mission is crystal clear: powering Europe only with renewable energy sources.
Main Benefits of EREF’s Work
EREF isn’t just talk — it’s action. Here are some key facts that highlight its impact:
- Represents national renewable energy associations from all EU Member States, covering every renewable energy sector.
- Over 20 years defending the interests of independent producers of power, fuel, and heat from renewable sources.
- Promotes non-discriminatory access to the energy market, ensuring fair play for all players.
- Advocates for full decarbonisation of European energy systems, pushing for decentralized renewable generation.
- Connects policymakers, industry experts, academia, and civil society to design better policies.
- Supports members in navigating and influencing evolving regulatory frameworks.
Building a Stable Framework for Renewables
EREF is all about creating, maintaining, and further developing stable and reliable framework conditions for renewable energy sources. This means pushing for policies and regulations that don’t just look good on paper but actually enable growth and sustainability in the renewable sector. The goal? A European energy market that’s fair, open, and fully supportive of renewables.
Connecting Stakeholders Across Europe
One of EREF’s standout roles is acting as a bridge between authorities and key climate and energy stakeholders. This includes policymakers in Brussels and capitals across Europe, experts from the renewable energy industry, academia, and civil society groups. By fostering this dialogue, EREF helps exchange best practices and tackle regulatory gaps that still exist at national and sub-national levels. It’s about making sure everyone’s voice is heard and that policies are shaped by real-world insights.
Advocacy Rooted in Expertise
EREF’s advocacy work is grounded in the expertise of its national member organisations. They gather valuable, practical insights on opportunities and barriers, which are then passed on to EU institutions. This two-way street ensures that policymakers can make informed decisions, while renewable power producers get early and accurate information about how legal and policy reforms might affect their markets. It’s a smart, proactive approach to shaping Europe’s energy future.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – promoting renewable energy access and market fairness.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – advocating for full decarbonisation of energy systems.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – supporting innovation in renewable technologies.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – connecting diverse stakeholders across Europe.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – encouraging sustainable energy production practices.
Global Collaborations and Influence
EREF doesn’t operate in isolation. It’s a founding member of IRENA’s multi-stakeholder Coalition for Action and part of the World Alliance for Efficient Solutions. Plus, it holds seats on the Renewable Energy Industry Advisory Board of the International Energy Agency and REN21’s Steering Committee. These global connections amplify EREF’s voice and influence, helping to push renewable energy agendas not just in Europe but worldwide. The federation’s non-profit status and governance through its Statutes and Bylaws ensure a clear, mission-driven focus at all times.
