Renewable energy development in Europe: Identifying Driving Factors and Bridging the Performance Gap

The European Union has set ambitious renewable energy targets as a key part of its decarbonization strategy. However, there is significant variation in the progress of EU member states toward meeting these goals. This research explores the factors influencing renewable energy deployment and examines the potential for emulating the best-performing countries, aiming to speed up the transition to a sustainable energy system. Our analysis identifies key drivers of renewable energy (RE) deployment, including the strength of the electricity grid infrastructure, the adoption of innovative technologies, energy mix diversification, and sustainable transportation promotion. A simulation scenario where all countries emulate the best-performing paths suggests a potential narrowing of the gap between actual and projected renewable energy deployment by 1.7% by 2030, with associated societal benefits. This finding underscores the importance of aligning national policies with the strategies of leading RE nations. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers and utilities to inform the design of effective policies and investment strategies, ultimately accelerating the EU's transition to a sustainable energy future.