The European paper industry is calling for support in order to help the EU reach net zero goals by 2050. In a paper for EU policymakers, timed to influence thinking ahead of elections to the European Parliament next year, Cepi calls for support for the paper industry to contribute to net zero goals through adoption of renewable energy both for electricity and heat generation.
The paper industry has made good progress with 60% of its energy requirement across the EU coming from renewables rather than fossil fuels, primarily gas. But it says there is potential to do more. The sector has also cut CO2 emissions by 39% compared to the base year of 2005 with energy consumption and production both falling by 10% in the same period.
It says that without assistance towards net zero, the sector risks a shut down and the transfer of production to less sustainable production outside Europe. “Moving away from fossil fuels as a source of energy for the EU’s industry should go hand in hand with preserving the global competitiveness of the Union’s manufacturing sector,” the organisation states.
Support would range from easier planning permission for the installation of solar panels and installation of biomass power generation, research into energy technology and storage, easier connectivity to the grid so that on site power can be distributed widely, and help with financing such long-term projects.
Cepi’s call for action is supported by others in the energy generation sector including Nuclear Europe and the European Geothermal Energy Council.
Cepi director general Jori Ringman says: “Our sector has exemplified commitment to climate policies, yet further policy action is essential to meet Europe’s targets without risking an EU rust belt.
“The decision makers need to recognise that the success of European economic decarbonisation relies on maintaining global competitiveness in manufacturing. Striking this balance is vital for maintaining sustainability and preserving the strength of the pulp and paper sector.”
Individual mills and mill groups have invested significantly in combined heat and power plants fired by biomass, have created networks to use excess heated water to local authorities for housing and schools and have invested in solar panels.
