What is EUREC?
The Association of European Renewable Energy Research Centres, known as EUREC, is basically the voice of renewable energy research across Europe. It represents a network of European research centres that are actively involved in renewable energy. Founded back in 1991 as a European Economic Interest Grouping (E.E.I.G.), EUREC’s main goal has been to boost the quality and reach of research and development in renewable energy technologies. Its members are top-notch R&D groups spread all over Europe, working on a wide range of renewable energy technologies like wind, biomass, small hydro, marine, geothermal, photovoltaics, solar thermal electricity, and solar thermal heating and cooling. But it doesn’t stop there — these members also dive into supporting technologies such as energy efficiency, storage, distribution, and integration, plus they study the social and economic aspects that come with renewable energy.
Main Benefits of EUREC
So, what makes EUREC stand out? Here are some key facts and figures that highlight its impact:
- Established in 1991, with over three decades of experience in renewable energy research coordination.
- Represents a broad network of European R&D centres covering all major renewable energy technologies.
- Focuses on innovative and integrated renewable energy solutions by identifying research needs.
- Promotes sound policymaking in renewable energy R&D to shape a sustainable future.
- Connects research and industry through project development, enabling innovation and technology transfer.
- Coordinates two European Masters in Renewable Energy, fostering a highly qualified workforce.
- Supports international cooperation in renewable energy research and development.
- Member of Hydrogen Europe, linking it to the growing hydrogen economy.
The Mission Behind EUREC
At its core, EUREC’s mission is all about pushing forward the development of innovative technologies and nurturing human resources to speed up the transition to a sustainable energy system. It’s not just about research for research’s sake — it’s about making sure that the work done in labs and universities translates into real-world solutions that can be adopted quickly. This means focusing on everything from cutting-edge tech to training the next generation of experts who will keep the renewable energy sector thriving.
Objectives Driving EUREC’s Work
EUREC’s mission is built on several clear objectives that guide its activities:
- Identifying research needs and enabling R&D for innovative and integrated renewable energy solutions.
- Promoting sound policymaking in renewable energy R&D to ensure supportive frameworks.
- Facilitating innovation and technology transfer by bridging the gap between research and industry through project development.
- Developing a highly qualified and trained workforce via the two European Masters in Renewable Energy programs coordinated by EUREC.
- Supporting international R&D cooperation to foster global progress in renewable energy.
Membership and Collaboration
EUREC’s strength lies in its members — prominent research and development groups scattered across Europe, each specializing in various renewable energy technologies and supporting fields. This diverse membership allows EUREC to cover a wide spectrum of renewable energy research, from wind and solar to biomass and marine energy. Plus, being a member of Hydrogen Europe connects EUREC to the hydrogen sector, which is becoming a crucial part of the clean energy transition. This collaborative network ensures that EUREC stays at the forefront of renewable energy innovation and policy influence.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy — promoting renewable energy technologies and access.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure — fostering innovation and technology transfer.
- SDG 13: Climate Action — supporting the transition to sustainable energy systems to combat climate change.
- SDG 4: Quality Education — developing highly qualified professionals through specialized education programs.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — encouraging international cooperation in renewable energy R&D.
Contact and Further Information
For those interested in learning more or connecting with EUREC, the association is based in Brussels, Belgium. You can reach out via email at info@eurec.be or by phone at +32(2)3184050. Their office is located at Place du Champ de Mars 2, 1050 Brussels. Whether you’re a researcher, policymaker, or industry professional, EUREC offers a gateway to the vibrant world of renewable energy research in Europe.
