CISOLAR & IBES: Breaking Barriers with 100% Renewable Energy
CISOLAR & IBES 2023, held in Bucharest, marked the 11th Solar Energy & Energy Storage Conference and Trade Show of Central and Eastern Europe, taking place on October 30-31 in Romania. The conference brought attention to critical issues related to European energy security and the climate crisis.
Produced by IB Centre, this dynamic platform for sustainable innovations is dedicated to advancing eco-friendly technologies and solutions across emerging markets. The event served as a premier meeting point for high-profile government officials, leading corporate executives, and industry experts, fostering meaningful discussions. CISOLAR & IBES 2023 played a pivotal role in identifying key pathways that will significantly contribute to achieving climate and economic objectives in the region.
In her opening remarks, Julia Daviy-Berezovska, President of Sustainable Innovations Council and Co-founder of IB Centre, underscored the pivotal role of solar energy across its various segments as the primary solution. Over the next decade, solar energy is poised to emerge as the leading catalyst for the decarbonization of the global economy and the predominant source of green electricity. Daviy-Berezovska emphasized that "electricity is the new oil," highlighting the imperative to triple global renewables capacity to 11,000 GW by 2030 to achieve a 35% reduction in emissions from the energy sector.
Citing the alarming statistic that the Earth has warmed 40% faster in the past 15 years than in the preceding decades, Daviy-Berezovska warned that October 2023 marks a critical juncture, signaling a significant acceleration in global temperature rise. Without effective solutions, she cautioned, the climate situation is poised to deteriorate rapidly. The urgency of addressing these challenges was a central theme of her address.
During his welcome speech for the CISOLAR & IBES 2023 Bucharest participants, Sebastian Burduja, the Minister of Energy of Romania, expressed that the event serves as a crucial platform for insightful dialogue and the presentation of technological advancements in Romania, promoting sustainable and renewable energy solutions. The Minister emphasized Romania's ambitious investment plan until 2030, with a primary focus on achieving 7 GW of energy from renewable sources. Sebastian Burduja highlighted, "CISOLAR 2023 has undoubtedly set the stage for pivotal collaborations and advancements in the realm of solar energy in Romania and beyond."
Hans-Josef Fell, former member of the German Parliament (1998-2013) and President of Energy Watch Group, delivered a keynote speech that served as a practical guide for European governments in addressing energy security and the looming threat of catastrophic climate change. Mr. Fell asserted, "Where oil and gas are, it is often war. Ukraine has become a striking example of this. To switch to 100% Renewables is the best peace strategy." He expressed the view that several energy projects, including nuclear, natural gas, fossil CCS (carbon capture storage), green hydrogen, fossil efficiency, and hybrid cars, are pseudo-solutions for climate protection.
Hans-Josef Fell underscores the pivotal role of policies in shaping a sustainable future. Laws that incentivize investment, such as Feed-in-Tariffs (FiT) and the innovative GET FiT for developing nations, play a crucial role in fostering global renewable growth. Tendering above 50 MW and auctioning provide a structured framework, ensuring efficient project execution. Energy sharing, as stipulated in RED II, introduces a collaborative approach, fostering a collective responsibility toward climate goals. Canceling subsidies for fossil and nuclear energy, coupled with tax relief for renewables, redirects financial support where it matters most. The implementation of a Carbon Tax signifies a commitment to environmental accountability, encouraging businesses to embrace cleaner practices. Simultaneously, investing in research and education for renewables and organic farming nurtures a sustainable ecosystem.
Bernhard Hermann, a Member of the German Parliament, emphasized in his speech at CISOLAR & IBES 2023 Bucharest: "The inherent volatility of solar and wind energies is a given, a natural aspect we must navigate. To complement these fluctuations, a nuanced approach is required, leveraging various flexibility options. In my view, the most crucial aspect lies in the smart combination of renewables. By strategically blending different renewable sources, we can create a more resilient and consistent energy landscape. Power grids play a pivotal role in enhancing flexibility. Strengthening and optimizing these grids facilitates the seamless integration of renewable energies into power systems. Energy storages, both centralized and decentralized, represent a cornerstone in our pursuit of a flexible energy future."
In response to recent developments in the solar power industry, Vitaliy Daviy, CEO of IB Centre, emphasized the transformative potential of solar energy in the context of industrial development through 2030. Highlighting the Wood Mackenzie study released in September, which identifies Romania as the most attractive market for small-scale solar power projects, Daviy noted the strategic positioning of the country in the solar energy landscape.
Addressing the substantial investments required for a decarbonized energy sector in Romania, Daviy cited the World Bank's Country Report on Climate and Development, underlining the need for approximately €335 billion, constituting about 3% of the country's GDP, until 2050. Recognizing the imperative to safeguard the planet, he echoed the key goals set for 2030, including tripling renewables capacity, doubling energy intensity improvements, and cutting methane from fossil fuels by 75%.
Looking ahead to the transformation of the global energy system by 2040, Daviy underscored ambitious targets, such as achieving 90% renewable power generation, electrifying 50% of energy consumption, and achieving annual removals of 1.7 Gt CO2. Daviy also commented on the remarkable investment landscape, noting the $1.8 trillion in clean energy investments in 2023 and the ambitious target of reaching $4.5 trillion per year by the early 2030s. He acknowledged the significant impact of Net Zero Energy Scenario policies, leading to a 25% reduction in fossil fuel demand by 2030 and an 80% reduction by 2050.
Cristina Pruna, a Romanian Member of Parliament and Vice President of the Committee for Industries and Services highlights the pivotal role of investment in addressing the persistent energy crisis. Emphasizing the significance of such measures, including those targeting 'prosumers'—individuals who serve both as consumers and producers—Pruna underscores their potential to substantially boost solar deployment and uptake in Romania.
Providing additional context, Pruna emphasizes the critical importance of solar energy for Romania's energy landscape. She elaborates on how increased investment and measures aimed at empowering prosumers align with Romania's broader strategy for sustainable energy development. Solar energy, with its inherent environmental benefits and potential for decentralization, becomes a cornerstone in the country's pursuit of a resilient and diversified energy mix.
Bogdan Balanișcu, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Environment of Romania, emphasized the need for a forward-looking perspective on the Romanian energy industry. He articulated the significance of envisioning the trajectory of the industry over the next 10, 20, and 30 years. According to Balanișcu, "It is crucial to define the trajectory aligning with our vision for Romania in 2050 and steadfastly adhere to that path until we achieve our climate-related objectives."
Lorant Antal, Chairman of the Committee on Energy, Energy Infrastructure, and Mineral Resources in the Romanian Senate, expressed his views on solar energy in Romania, highlighting its pivotal role in the country's energy landscape. He emphasized the importance of fostering a conducive environment for solar initiatives, promoting sustainable energy practices, and capitalizing on Romania's solar potential.
Carolina Novac, Secretary of State, Ministry of Energy of Moldova, described the achievements of Moldova's renewable energy sector, noting a significant increase in total installed capacity from 61.6 MW in 2018 to 206.81 MW at the end of 2022. Novac highlighted the substantial growth of PV plants during this period, rising to 60.13 MW in 2022 from only 4.02 MW in 2018.
Sorin Chiriță, President of the Association for Regional Development and European Policies, Romania in his speech at CISOLAR & IBES 2023, said that municipalities can become powerful drivers of solar energy development. We expect that in 2024, Bucharest and other large Romanian cities will already have a powerful megawatt portfolio of rooftop stations, which will be equipped with social infrastructure facilities. For this, we must actively work on the formation of the latest legislative framework.
Mihai Stratan, President of The Association of Renewable Energy Producers of Moldova (Ecoenergetica) underlined at CISOLAR&IBES 2023 the importance of cross-border partnership for renewable energy development. “Moldova is a long-term partner of Romania and Ukraine in the energy sector. Today is the time for a new stage of cooperation — in solar energy projects, including the construction of energy storage systems,” he said.
With over 1000 visitors from more than 20 countries, CISOLAR&IBES 2023 presented a prime opportunity to network with industry leaders and engage in discussions on innovative topics that will contribute significantly to the European energy industry of tomorrow.
CISOLAR&IBES 2023 brought together a distinguished panel of over 50 speakers and 200 industry experts who provided insightful commentary on the current state and future prospects of solar energy. Their discussions covered a wide spectrum of topics, from emerging technologies and sustainable practices to the economic viability of solar energy projects.
The exhibit booths offered a hands-on experience for attendees, providing live demonstrations, product showcases, and interactive displays. From solar modules and inverters to energy storage solutions and smart grid technologies, the trade show floor served as a comprehensive platform for industry players to present their latest offerings and network with potential partners and customers.
CISOLAR & IBES 2023 Bucharest expresses sincere gratitude to its dedicated sponsors, whose invaluable contributions played a pivotal role in the success of the event.
General Partner: Afenex
Evening Reception Sponsor: Rengy Development
Gigawatt Sponsors: SolarSK, Atmosfera, Photomate, Energy3000, Voltaj Esco
Megawatt Sponsors: Talesun, YI Energy
Kilowatt Sponsors: Solarity, Staubli, AIKO, GOODWE, Jetion Solar, Unisolar, BayWa r.e., Solargis, Odeskabel
Sponsor of Session: SMA
About CISOLAR & IBES:
CISOLAR is a premier trade show, conference, and award event in the field of solar energy in CEE. It serves as a platform for industry professionals, experts, and enthusiasts to gather and exchange knowledge, ideas, and innovations related to solar energy. The event showcases the latest advancements, technologies, and products in the solar industry, making it an ideal venue for networking, learning, and exploring business opportunities. CISOLAR brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, manufacturers, project developers, investors, and more. Whether you are interested in the latest solar trends, seeking collaboration opportunities, or simply looking to stay updated on the rapidly evolving solar energy sector, CISOLAR offers a unique experience that fosters growth, collaboration, and inspiration in the field of solar energy.
CISOLAR 2023 highlighted the latest trends and technologies in the solar energy industry, with a particular emphasis on the emerging markets of Central and Eastern Europe. The event offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into the solar energy market and discover the latest products, technologies, and services from leading companies and organizations in the industry.
Over the past eleven years, CISOLAR has established itself as the primary business platform for the solar energy industry, bringing together all market players and showcasing PV companies, services, technologies, and equipment from around the world. The event is specifically designed for the emerging markets of Central and Eastern Europe, making it an essential destination for professionals in the field.
CISOLAR 2024 Conference and Exhibition will be held in Bucharest on October 15-17.
IBES, the "Innovative Business of Energy Storage," is the CEE Energy Storage Conference and Exhibition, which has been co-located with CISOLAR since 2021, sharing the same venue and date. Anticipate IBES 2024, set to take place in Bucharest from October 15 to 17.
For press inquiries or further information, please contact cisolar@ibcentre.org.
The original article was published on November 27, 2023