Publication Details

Category Text Publication
Reference Category Journals
DOI 10.1016/j.enpol.2012.10.018
Title (Primary) Why should support schemes for renewable electricity complement the EU emissions trading scheme?
Author Lehmann, P.; Gawel, E.
Source Titel Energy Policy
Year 2013
Department OEKON
Volume 52
Page From 597
Page To 607
Language englisch
Keywords EU emissions trading system; Policy mix; Renewable energies
UFZ wide themes RU6;
Abstract In virtually all EU Member States, the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) is complemented by support schemes for electricity generation from renewable energy sources (RES-E). This policy mix has been subject to strong criticism. It is mainly argued that RES-E schemes contribute nothing to emissions reduction and undermine the cost-effectiveness of the EU ETS. Consequently, many scholars suggest the abolition of RES-E schemes. However, this conclusion rests on quite narrow and unrealistic assumptions about the design and performance of markets and policies. This article provides a systematic and comprehensive review and discussion of possible rationales for combining the EU ETS with RES-E support schemes. The first and most important reason may be restrictions to technology development and adoption. These may be attributed to the failure of markets as well as policies, and more generally to the path dependency in socio-technical systems. Under these conditions, RES-E schemes are required to reach sufficient levels of technology development. In addition, it is highlighted that in contrast to the EU ETS RES-E support schemes may provide benefits beyond mitigating climate change.

Persistent UFZ Identifier https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=12921
Lehmann, P., Gawel, E. (2013):
Why should support schemes for renewable electricity complement the EU emissions trading scheme?
Energy Policy 52 , 597 - 607 10.1016/j.enpol.2012.10.018