Recording of Monday, June 22, 2026 | The smarter E Europe Conferences 2026 | Language: English | Duration: 21:39 .

Challenges and Strategies for Renewable Energy in Europe

A recent panel discussion addressed urgent challenges and strategic directions for the renewable energy sector in Europe, particularly concerning the integration of renewable targets with clear development rules. Key discussions revealed that while low-cost solar installations are crucial, there are concerns over reliance on Chinese modules and the need for local manufacturing to enhance supply chain resilience. The necessity of increasing renewable production is critical as current energy infrastructure heavily relies on oil and gas, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions. Strategies include implementing non-price criteria in auctions, as demonstrated in Italy, which allows for quality considerations alongside cost. Further advocacy for local battery production aims to leverage existing industrial capabilities and mitigate reliance on imported materials. Future policies are encouraged to focus on hybrid solar and storage projects, enhancing grid efficiency and providing diversified revenue channels. As challenges with grid capacity and regulatory environments persist, a balanced approach is essential for sustaining growth and meeting Europe’s climate objectives.

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Talk of session: Auctions and CfDs: The Strategic Role of CfDs and Tenders for Solar plus Storage in the Energy Transition

As merchant and PPA revenues decline amid negative price trends and falling capture rates, auctions and Contracts for Difference (CfDs) are regaining strategic importance for large-scale solar and storage projects. CfDs remain the backbone of renewable financing, providing price certainty and lowering capital costs. At the same time, auction models must evolve to incentivize flexibility and prevent grid congestion. New EU rules permit non-price criteria in tenders and other publicprocurement processes in order to strengthen resilience and support EU supply chains. This session examines how auctions and CfDs can secure clean capacity, integrate storage and reinforce Europe's energy security and competitiveness.

Key topics:

• Auctions / CfDs in a low capture price environment
• European auction landscape overview
• Incentivizing flexibility and storage
• Non-price criteria and resilience requirements
• The role of auctions in energy security and industrial policy

Further Talks of this session:

Welcome and Introduction

Speaker

Tobias Biller
Senior Regulatory Affairs Manager
RWE Renewables Europe & Australia GmbH
Germany

To Talk

Europe's Solar Lifeline: The Critical Role of Renewable Auctions Through 2035

Speaker

Victoria Ortega
Analyst, European Power & Renewables, Solar
Wood Mackenzie
United Kingdom

To Talk

Learnings From the Uks Cfd Scheme

Speaker

Chris Hewett
CEO
Solar Energy UK
United Kingdom

To Talk

Italy`s Strategy on Solar & Battery Storage Auctions

Speaker

To Talk