Actualités

Lundi 21 Mai 2012 09:56

EWEC 2003 CONFERENCE DEFINES THE FUTURE OF THE WIND INDUSTRY.

Madrid/ Brussels --- "Europe is not rich in oil, coal or gas, but we have huge wind resources and European companies are world leaders at converting it into energy. Wind power technology is ready to move into the mainstream", said Arthouros Zervos, President of EWEA and Programme Chairman of 2003 EWEC (1), the largest wind energy conference and exhibition ever held in Europe.

The European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) (2) announced that Europe is at the forefront of the growth of the wind industry, with 75% of all the global capacity achieved by European wind companies. Last year 87% of global wind power capacity installed was in Europe.

"Wind power is the world fastest growing energy technology, and Europe is in the fast lane. This industry could be worth Euros 25 billion a year in 2010. This year we are focusing on the critical interface of markets, policy and technology, which will define our future. In particular, making progress on the policy and regulatory framework at a European and international level is vital for our industry's fortunes", said Eddie O'Connor Conference Chairman, Vice President of EWEA and Managing Director of Airtricity, Ireland.

By the end of 2002, the wind industry in Europe: - generated enough power to supply the needs of 40 million European citizens.

• generated employment for around 75,000 people.
• produced an annual turnover of 6.8 million Euros.
• over 85% of the global wind market is supplied by European manufacturers.
• 35% was the average industry growth rate in Europe over the last five years.

"This conference is the major international wind event on the calendar this year. We have assembled a comprehensive programme that provides in-depth focus on business, policy, science and technology", said Arthouros Zervos, Current energy markets are highly distorted and favour conventional power sources. EWEA is calling for the obstacles to a level playing field to be removed, to allow:

• fair competition.
• fair market conditions.
• fair access to grids and markets.

Notes to editors:

(1) Address: Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I, Madrid, 16-19 June. 2003 EWEC hosts over 200 speakers, 300 technical and business posters, 14 parallel workshops, 160 companies exhibiting, European R and D strategy sessions, and 1500 people are expected to attend.

(2) EWEA is the voice of the wind industry. EWEA members from over 40 countries include around 200 companies, organizations, and research

Institutions. EWEA members include manufacturers covering 98% of the world wind power market. EWEA is the world's largest renewable energy association.